The UN sustainable development goals were adopted at the UN Summit in September 2015 in New York. Which do you think are the most important highlights in the commitments in view of the expected outcome and results in 2030?
According to me, the sustainable development of the Earth starts from the individual. From his citizenship participation, from his personal prosperity and nobody and nothing should prevent him from developing and being happy. Seen through such an approach that brings a new level of individual human rights, as a basis for common prosperity. It is seen also qualitatively new understanding of what is being economic and individual prosperity. Leading is not the material possession and multiplication of material goods, but happiness and development - those which do not interfere with the right of others to be happy and to develop.
2015 is key in finalizing the global agreement on climate change. Are you optimistic about the outcome of the 2015 Paris Climate Conference (COP21) and the role of the European Union in this regard?
I wish I could be an optimist, but I am rather a realist. Negotiations are difficult and the European Union has a leading role in them. The important thing for Europe is to overcome its internal differences and show a united face. The fact that this year COP is in Paris, is encouraging. I hope that Europe being the host, it will demonstrate its will and strength to lead the whole world, so that the agreement will integrate both feasible and ambitious goals.
Where in your opinion is the biggest potential of Bulgaria for achieving sustainable development and in what can we become a European and global role model?
Bulgaria has a unique nature and despite the demographic crisis, there are still good specialists in different fields. The potential cannot be developed without politics and purposeful governmental actions for sustainable "green" growth and encouragement for the private sector’s efforts in this direction.The opportunities for the use of renewable energy sources are significant for increasing the resource efficiency. And if we put it on purpose and focus our efforts in this direction, I think we can be leaders in the development of circular economy. This would be not only in complete harmony with the thriftiness of the Bulgarians, but it can accelerate economic growth.
What is your personal sustainable vision or dream which you are committed to pursue professionally?
I want to live in a world, in which everyone has the conditions and the opportunities to develop his full potential and to be happy. Isn’t it the age-old human dream. I wonder why it is so difficult to achieve.
