LIFE programme Now Open in Four Topics

Funding for the LIFE programme is now open, a European instrument for developing and implementing European climate, nature and environmental policy. 

LIFE funding for projects comes in four topics: Nature and Biodiversity, Circular Economy and Quality of Life, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation, and Clean Energy Transition. All types of organisations can apply for funding from the LIFE programme. Companies, governments, knowledge institutions and NGOs. For the 2021-2027 programme period, Europe has € 5.43 billion available for projects that improve the living environment.

LIFE programme for Environment, Climate and Nature

The programme consists of four focus areas. These focus areas are extensive, a lot is possible with LIFE funding. For example: using less water for crops, more organic pesticides instead of chemical ones, protect animal species or insects, removing waste from water or sustainable street lights. A lot of different topics. In general, LIFE helps projects that develop European policy on one of the following topics:

Nature and biodiversity

Within the Nature and Biodiversity call, nature conservation projects that protect and restore European nature with the aim of halting and reversing biodiversity loss are eligible for funding. The programme contributes to the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030, part of the Green Deal.

Circular economy & quality of life

The Circular Economy and Quality of Life call promotes the transition to a sustainable, circular and toxin-free economy. It supports environmental projects that contribute to a better environment in Europe, especially in the field of resource recovery and environmental management. These include resource recovery from waste, water, air, noise, environmental, soil and chemical management.

Climate mitigation and adaptation

The Climate Mitigation and Adaptation call supports the transition to a climate-neutral, resilient and sustainable EU economy. Projects on agriculture, land use, peat management, renewable energy and energy efficiency are eligible for funding under this topic.

Renewable Energy Transition (Clean Energy)

Within the Renewable Energy Transition topic, projects that contribute to EU policies for renewable and sustainable energy are eligible for funding. The focus is on the Green Deal, the energy and climate goals for 2030 and the long-term strategy for a low-carbon energy supply in 2050.

The deadline for applications (Standard Action Projects (SAPs)) is on 23 September 2025.

LIFE projects must be innovative and demonstrate a new technique or approach. Each year, there is a term in which applications can be submitted per project category. Would you like to know more about the opportunities LIFE can offer for your organisation? Get in touch with our LIFE specialists via +31 85 048 31 10 or info@hezelburcht.com.

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