Authors: Molly Rickles, Kalina Tcolova
This study examines public perceptions of carbon management (CM) in Bulgaria to assess the country’s readiness for the large-scale deployment of solutions such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS).
Findings point to a structural mismatch. The public is not fundamentally opposed, but industry cannot invest under current conditions. Bridging this gap requires credible regulation, coordinated infrastructure planning, and early engagement with affected communities. Without such alignment, CCUS is likely to remain politically fragile and economically stalled despite its potential relevance for long-term decarbonisation.