EU's LIFE Programme Scrapped: Environmental Groups Slam Decision
The European Commission's decision to scrap the LIFE programme, a key funding source for environmental and climate projects, has sparked concern and criticism. The LIFE programme, which had a €5.5 billion budget for 2021-2027, has been instrumental in supporting over 1,000 projects in Spain and around 6,000 initiatives across the EU. Its objectives included transforming the EU into a net-zero emissions economy by 2050 and preserving its natural capital.
The LIFE programme, which ran from 2021 to 2027, had two primary objectives: combating climate change and preserving Europe's natural heritage. It had a significant impact, with around €800 million allocated annually. The programme's success is evident in the recovery of several species, such as the Iberian lynx, bearded vulture, and black vulture, from the brink of extinction.
Environmental organizations like WWF and the European Environmental Bureau (EEB) have criticized the decision to remove LIFE. They argue that it should be retained as an independent, adequately funded instrument within the EU budget. They also call for at least 50% of EU funds to be legally committed to climate, biodiversity, and social projects, with direct grants prioritizing high societal benefit initiatives, especially in structurally weak regions. Rasmus Nordqvist, budget negotiator for the Greens group in the European Parliament, has labelled the decision 'irresponsible' due to the ongoing biodiversity crisis. Patrick ten Brink, secretary general of the EEB, has condemned the loss of LIFE as 'not simplification, but sabotage'.
The LIFE programme's elimination in the draft budget for 2021-2027 raises concerns about the future of nature restoration and conservation projects. NGOs fear that these initiatives may not receive sufficient support in the new budget. The European Commission's decision to dismantle LIFE has been met with strong criticism from environmental organizations, who argue for its retention and increased funding.
