The objective of the measure is to ensure timely and organized prevention of the introduction of non-indigenous species and to prevent or reduce possible negative impacts on marine ecosystems. The measure will follow the internationally agreed “three-tier hierarchical approach” set out in the Convention on Biological Diversity and Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014, namely: Prevention; Early detection through monitoring and eradication; Control and long-term containment. The measure includes two phases, with the first phase focusing on the development of an action plan, which should be based on conducted studies aimed at improving understanding of the introduction and spread of non-indigenous species.

National actions for the implementation of the measure: Preparatory work for supplementing/amending/adapting the legislative framework, if necessary; Conducting consultations with stakeholders and the public; Adoption of legislative amendments. Currently, a regulatory mechanism is lacking for a number of activities that could affect the marine environment, which prevents the effective mitigation of potential negative impacts on marine ecosystems. Such activities include, for example, the harvesting of certain shellfish species from their natural habitats, the use of dispersants, dredging and disposal operations, and others. The existing legislation does not require alignment or integration of investment proposals, plans, and programmes with the Marine Strategy, which significantly hampers its implementation and is an obstacle to the effective execution of the programme of measures. This highlights the need for a gap analysis of the current legislation and its improvement. Although the measure is not directly aimed at achieving Good Environmental Status (GES) of the marine environment, it is essential for ensuring compliance with the Directive’s requirements, and consequently, for achieving GES.

The measure aims to promote the development and use of environmentally friendly technologies for the artificial farming and harvesting of commercially valuable marine species that naturally inhabit or have already been introduced into the Black Sea, in order to meet the needs of the population while preserving the sustainable development of marine flora and fauna.

The measure is planned for implementation under the Procedure """"Protection of the Ecological State of Sea Water"""". Extraction of small-sized classes of Rapana venosa using environmentally friendly fishing methods. Processing of catches, etc. Training of divers. Purchase of diving equipment.