Brussels, 28/10/2008 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission has approved funding of up to €186 million for 143 new projects under the LIFE+ programme, the new financial instrument for the environment (which has a total budget of € 2.143 billion for 2007-2013).
The projects in question, representing a total investment of €367 million, were selected from over 700 proposals from public or private bodies from the 27 EU member states, received by the Commission within a first call for proposals.
The LIFE+ Nature & Biodiversity projects aim to improve the conservation status of endangered species and habitats. Out of the 264 proposals received, the Commission selected 58 projects for funding in 21 member states. These represent a total investment of €165 million, of which over €94 million will be borne by the EU. Most projects (54) are Nature projects, contributing to the implementation of the Birds and/or Habitats Directives and the Natura 2000 network. The other projects concern pilot initiatives tackling biodiversity-related problems.
The LIFE+ Environment Policy & Governance projects are pilot projects that contribute to the development of innovative policy ideas, technologies, methods and instruments. The Commission selected 74 projects (out of 325) representing total investment of €185 million, of which the EU will finance €84 million. The projects targeting waste and natural resources (29) account for the largest share of EU funding (approximately €26 million). Climate change is the second most targeted priority with 22 projects (and approx €24 million). Twenty-four other projects include projects on water, urban environment, soil, noise, forests, chemicals, air and environment and health.
The LIFE+ Information and Communication projects aim to disseminate information and raise the profile of environmental issues. Out of the 118 proposals received, 11 were selected in seven member states (Spain, France, Finland, Italy, Malta, Sweden and the United Kingdom). They will receive €8 million from the EU for total investment of €16 million. (A.N./transl.jl)