The LIFE Programme is a financial instrument for the environment which spearheads the European Union’s Environmental Policy to co-finance projects in three areas:
The LIFE Programme has been implemented in phases since 1992. The current phase, LIFE III, (2000-2004) has a budget of €640 million. Each year a call for proposals and a closing date is published in the Official Journal (OJEC). Once submitted, the proposals are evaluated by the Commission who are then responsible for the financial control and monitoring of the implementation of LIFE Projects. Accompanying measures ensure the on-site monitoring of projects and dissemination of results.
There are five categories of environmental projects eligible for funding: 1. Land-use development and planning 2. Water management 3. Reduction of the environmental impact of economic activities 4. Waste management 5. Reduction of the environmental impact of products through an integrated product policy The purpose of the Programme is to bridge the gap between research and development results and their large-scale application. To this end, demonstration projects based on the results of projects which have been supported under past or ongoing technological research and development programmes are encouraged. The dissemination of results is essential to ensure that innovative technologies and procedures for protecting the environment are widely applied. The European Union has allocated approximately €300 million for LIFE Environment for the period 2000-2004. The rate of Community cofinancing can be up to 30% for projects generating substantial net revenue, 50% in other cases. Please visit the LIFE website for further details on the LIFE Programme including projects, news, events, publications, how to apply for funding, results, lessons, achievements and helpful contacts. |