Center of Competence: Sustainable Utilization of Bio-Resources from Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
Overview and Strategic Goals
The Center of Competence “Sustainable Utilization of Bio-Resources and Waste of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants for Innovative Bioactive Products” is a major Bulgarian research platform committed to the intelligent use of the nation’s medicinal and aromatic plant resources. Led by the Institute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences under Prof. Vladimir Dimitrov, the Center serves as a bridge between scientific excellence and practical applications for industry. Its strategic focus supports Bulgaria’s Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialization in “Industry for healthy living and biotechnologies.”
History: Main Projects and Development
The Center’s evolution is marked by two successive main projects:
- Project BG05M2OP001-1.002-0012 (2018–2023):
Launched in March 2018, this first phase established the research infrastructure for sustainable utilization of plant bio-resources and their waste. The project received total funding of BGN 23,791,055.20 (approx. €12 million), with 85% co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. - Project BG05M2OP001-1.002-0012-C01 (2024–2029):
Building on the initial success, the Center entered its second phase in December 2024. This project focuses on expanding capacities, scientific partnerships, and the transition from research prototypes to industrial applications. The project’s total funding is BGN 14,536,050.34 (approx. €7.4 million), with BGN 11,188,906.70 allocated from the EU.
In both phases, the Center has grown its partnership network, incorporating Sofia University, the Institute of Polymers of BAS, AgroBioInstitute, and industry organizations. Each project has reinforced the Center’s leadership in bio-resource innovation and sustainable technology.
Research, Impact, and Future Development
The Center performs all activities along the bio-resource value chain, from plant biomass characterization and innovative green extraction technology to biological activity testing and product development. State-of-the-art facilities support its scientific programme, enabling high-impact research and application in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic fields.
Internationally recognized through numerous publications and European research collaborations, the Center in its current phase continues to advance Bulgaria’s bioeconomy, increase rural prosperity, and promote smarter environmental stewardship.
Scientific infrastructure in DCPE, Sofia University
The department hosts specialized laboratories equipped for product formulation, stability testing, characterization, and quality control. Key capabilities include:
- Powder mixing and granulation systems
- Single-station tablet press
- Dissolution testing units
- Climatic chamber for accelerated stability studies
- Rheometer
- Ultracentrifuge
- Microscopes
- X-ray scattering equipment
- Antimicrobial activity testing apparatus
- Hematology analyzer
