European Parliament adopts Regulation for LIFE Programme for 2021 – 2027

With a total financial envelope of €5.432 billion for LIFE for the period 2021-2027, the budget marks an increase of over 50 % compared to the one for the previous programme period. The increase reflects the agreement reached within the EU's long term-budget and Next Generation EU recovery instrument that at least 30% of the total EU expenditure should contribute to climate action.

LIFE is structured in two fields: Environment (which includes the sub-programmes Nature and Biodersity, and Circular Economy and Quality of Life) and Climate Action (which includes the sub-programme Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation and the new one - Clean Energy Transition).

Funding will be available for best practice, high-tech and solution-oriented projects designed at local, regional or national level. This includes integrated approaches regarding implementation of waste management plans, improvement of air quality, restoration of biodiversity and marine ecosystems. From 2021, LIFE will also fund measures related to energy efficiency and renewable energy. Eligible entities are public and private organisations, NGOs, enterprises in the field of education.

The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) will be the implementing authority for LIFE for 2021 – 2027.

EU Affairs Coordination and International Cooperation Directorate at the Ministry of Environment and Water acts as National Contact Point (NCP) and provides information and support to Bulgarian candidates in regard to project preparation, submission and implementation.