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- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Germany
- Ireland
- Greece
- Spain
- France
- Croatia
- Italy
- Latvia
- Hungary
- Netherlands
- Austria
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Finland
- Sweden
- Iceland
- Ukraine
Belgium
- Nature and Biodiversity
Future-proofing the conservation of amphibians (LIFE ToadAlly)
Amphibians are a ‘canary in the coal mine' for environmental breakdown and climate change. A partnership of environmental organisations will improve the conservation status of four highly endangered toad species by reintroducing, restocking and reconnecting at least eight amphibian populations; restoring or creating 100 ha of terrestrial habitats, 145 toad shelters and 300 ponds; mobilising stakeholders and the public; and integrating policies across Belgium.
New approaches to conserving the endangered common hamster (LIFE Cricetus)
Farmers, scientists and policymakers are working together to protect threatened populations of the common hamster across Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Demonstration farms will test hamster- and wildlife-friendly agricultural practices to encourage both productive farming and thriving rural biodiversity which can then be replicated in other areas across Europe where the common hamster is in decline.
Restoring wetland biodiversity (LIFE HEROES)
Wetlands supply us with water, help regulate our climate, support local economies and are an essential part of our natural and cultural heritage. Taking its lead from the new EU Nature Restoration regulation, LIFE HEROES is a demonstration model led by government and non-governmental organisations for the restoration of carbon rich wetlands across nine Natura 2000 sites in Flanders, Belgium.
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Combining construction waste with carbon capture to create low carbon cement (CEMLOOP XL)
The construction industry produces 35% of the EU's waste. This multinational consortium of 13 partners aims to demonstrate how such waste can be recycled into a raw material for cement production at industrial scale. They will create a low-carbon recycled cement paste from waste generated by fibre cement production, construction and demolition. It will reduce CO2 emissions by 20% and virgin raw material consumption by 112,000 tonnes a year.
- Environmental Governance and Information
Reducing the EU food system's environmental impact with Superlist (EU-SUPERMARKETS LIFE)
Europeans buy 70-80% of their food in supermarkets, giving these companies enormous influence over the environmental impact of the food industry. The project partners will deploy the ‘Superlist' monitoring tool to compare the sustainability of supermarkets across the EU. They aim to trigger competition between supermarkets and raise awareness of the sector's effect on climate change, pollution and waste.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Climate and energy planning for a fair and just transition to climate neutrality (Plan4Climate)
This multinational consortium of 14 environmental NGOs aims to support the implementation of EU climate policy. It will monitor progress in implementing National Energy and Climate Plans in EU Member States, disseminating whether they are on track to meet climate targets. Plan4Climate will also raise awareness of the socio-economic benefits of climate actions, promoting solutions that will reduce negative social impacts.
- Clean Energy Transition
Upscaling residential retrofit through innovative financing and neighbourhood examples (REFINED)
Belgium's rate of renovating residential buildings remains slow and inefficient. Through collective and One Stop Shop approaches, the interdisciplinary project team will aggregate projects at neighbourhood and condominium levels in the city of Mechelen, with streamlined processes for residents, building managers and contractors. Expected results are €10.9 million in green investments, energy savings of 2.4 GWh/year, and significant greenhouse gas emission reductions.
Standardising heat pumps for sustainable food production (EXQUISHEAT)
Heat pumps are not regularly used in the food industry, but EXQUISHEAT will change this. Project partners from Belgium, Germany, Spain, Italy, Austria and Poland – including stakeholders from the food and heat pump industries – will create a framework for sustainable energy solutions and development of standardised heat pump solutions. At least 20 new heat pumps will be installed, saving emissions and reducing energy consumption.
Addressing energy efficiency through novel financing (NEW-PACE)
Buildings consume 40% of the EU's energy but only 1% are renovated annually – an insufficient rate to achieve zero-emission goals. An innovative financing model – that links financing to the property rather than the owner, covers renovation costs and transfers repayments when properties are sold – will be trialled in Spain and scaled up across the Netherlands, allowing more accessible upgrades.
Linking green upgrades with private investment for sustainable homes (LEG-UP)
Energy efficient housing solutions are often too expensive for low-income buyers. By leveraging private capital and partnering with One Stop Shops, project partners will develop an innovative financial model to combine mortgages and energy renovation services. Over €2 billion in private investments is expected over six years. Pilot projects will be launched in Belgium and Spain before broader implementation across Europe.
Bulgaria
- Nature and Biodiversity
Reducing bird deaths from overhead power lines (EP for Birds LIFE)
Overhead power cables are a collision risk for rare and endangered migratory birds, while poor cable insulation can cause fatal electrocutions and costly power outages. 17,000 electricity pylons will be retro-insulated and 2,500 bird diverters installed both to protect endangered Eastern Imperial eagles and Egyptian vultures along migratory flyways and to improve the reliability and stability of power distribution. Run by a grid operator, the project will encourage electricity distributors across eastern Europe to adopt similar solutions.
Conserving stone crayfish for healthy rivers (RiverLIFE)
Stone crayfish are a key indicator of healthy river ecosystems. Both rivers and crayfish will benefit from connecting 26 ha of stone crayfish habitats across six Natura 2000 sites in Bulgaria, removing barriers, restoring 1.6 ha of river-bank forests and restocking rivers with juveniles reared in captivity. As a result, crayfish numbers will increase to a minimum of 10 individuals/100 m2 in at least three key locations.
- Clean Energy Transition
Advancing citizen-led energy initiatives in Eastern Europe (SHAREs Plus)
Building on the success of the SHAREs National Gateways project and focusing on Cyprus, Romania, North Macedonia and Ukraine, the project team from six EU Member States will launch 13 new energy communities and support 50 existing ones to roll-out new renewables projects. The resulting Gateway platform will support initiatives and build capacity by connecting public and private sector experts.
Enhancing sustainable local governance in climate and energy sectors in Central and Southeast Europe (LEEAN-CET)
The project team will roll-out the European Energy Award in Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Slovenia, North Macedonia and Ukraine to equip 30 municipalities to implement energy transition plans. The project will train over 300 municipal experts, establish 30 clean energy action plans and develop investment concepts. A capacity-building platform will provide courses, workshops, best practices and training schemes.
Czechia
- Nature and Biodiversity
Model care for improved forest ecosystems (LIFE Model Forest)
Forest owners, local administrators, research organisations and volunteers will join forces to create a replicable model for addressing the challenges faced by different forest ecosystems and the native species that live in them. 11 habitats and 12 species across 20 Natura 2000 sites in Czechia and Poland will benefit from improved biodiversity and the eradication of invasive plant species.
- Clean Energy Transition
Streamlining and promoting Energy Communities in Central Europe (LIFE EnerGISE)
Energy Communities in Central Europe are at different stages in their development and skill levels. The project consortium of partners from seven countries will provide access to training, workshops, factsheets and policy recommendations across national and regional levels. Know-how will be centralised in the user-friendly database and One Stop Shops established in five countries. Findings will be shared to allow replication in other areas.
Denmark
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Creating alternatives to nano plastics in toiletries (BIOCARE4LIFE)
The personal care industry relies upon fossil-based plastics known as rheology modifiers to thicken and stabilise many personal care products, such as shampoos, lotions, gels and sunscreens, contributing to microplastic pollution. The consortium will scale up, optimise and commercially validate a high-performance bio-based and biodegradable rheology modifier. They aim to prevent the release of 259 tonnes of microplastic a year and reduce hazardous chemical use.
- Clean Energy Transition
Green strategies and partnerships for industrial renewable heat (GREENSPIRE)
Progress in decarbonising Europe's heat sources is slow due to complex infrastructure, processes and facilities. The 11 GREENSPIRE partners aim to tackle the barriers to renewable heat solutions by allowing companies to share different renewable heat technologies. Six pilots will be launched in Belgium, Denmark, Greece and Spain. At least 33 companies could implement this approach, saving energy and emissions, and triggering over €40 million in investment.
Germany
- Nature and Biodiversity
Helping wild hamsters adapt to climate change (LIFE4HamsterSaxony)
Climate change and industrial farming have hit the common hamster hard. Once thriving in the north-west Saxony area of Germany, no common hamsters have been sighted in the wild since 2020. LIFE4HamsterSaxony combines captive breeding and restoration of 394 ha of habitat with hamster-friendly farming practices to re-establish a population of 1,200 animals by 2031 and 1 500 by 2036.
Peatland restoration in Hannover (LIFE RePeat)
95% of Lower Saxony's peatlands have been destroyed and the rest are deteriorating fast. An interdisciplinary team supported by volunteers will restore 1,044 ha of raised bogs and fens in three Natura 2000 sites, focusing on conserving crested newts, moor frogs and common spadefoot toads in peatlands and freshwater. Restoration of a further 1,800 ha will reduce flooding and boost ground water.
Empowering businesses to import deforestation-free cocoa and coffee (FairTHRIVE)
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the EU must comply with the EU Regulation on Deforestation-free products (EUDR). A consortium of European Fairtrade organisations will provide training and tools to help MSMEs safely import deforestation-free cocoa and coffee from suppliers in producing countries. FairTHRIVE will also share knowledge and skills with international organisations and members of the ISEAL Alliance for social and environmental standards.
Testing biodiversity credits in European wetlands (LIFE Biodiv CrEW)
The biodiversity crisis urgently requires new financial mechanisms which harness private investment and provide funding for conservation. The biodiversity credit market needs to grow but is hampered by limited practical experience and a lack of a political framework. The project team of key stakeholders will test, validate and pilot sales of two biodiversity credit schemes and identify suitable European wetlands to which they can be applied.
Replicating smart systems for tackling invasive alien species (LIFE SMART IAS)
LIFE SMART IAS combines technical components including e-DNA sampling, AI-enhanced smart traps, online database and apps to monitor and catch coypu and muskrat, two of the most prolific invasive alien species (IAS) in Belgium, northwest Germany and the Netherlands. The replicable, scalable, installable package will include operation and training manuals, a system console and a replicability guide for adapting to other IAS.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Greenhouse gas-free circuit breakers for electricity substations (BLUE 245kV Live Tank)
Most electricity substations in Europe use live tank circuit breakers insulated using sulphur hexafluoride (SF6), the most potent greenhouse gas known. Project partners Siemens and Red Electrica will demonstrate a new type of live tank circuit breaker that replaces SF6 with nitrogen and oxygen, lowering the impact of SF6 leakage from circuit breakers into the atmosphere.
Scaling up peatland restoration in Europe (LIFE SUPER EU)
Peatlands are the most carbon- rich ecosystems and effective carbon stores, but many in Europe are degraded. The project partners will restore 1 285 hectares of peatland in seven EU countries, while addressing several bottlenecks that hinder the large-scale restoration of peatlands. This will include building capacity and technical expertise while also identifying 14,600 hectares in 15 European countries suitable for private funded peatland restoration projects.
- Clean Energy Transition
Putting the energy transition into citizens' hands (EnTranC)
Involving citizens, businesses and institutions in the development of clean energy transition plans is a challenge. The project team will work with landowners and citizens in the Fürstenfeldbruck and Starnberg districts in Germany to increase current installation rates of wind turbines, photovoltaic plants and geothermal district heating networks to generate sufficient energy for the transition of both districts.
Monitoring energy consumption and evaluating policy (ODYSSEE-MURE - EED)
Energy consumption trends and impacts of energy efficiency policies are measured so that countries align with the EU Energy Efficiency Directive (EED). Created by the project team from 26 EU Member States and Switzerland, the ODYSSEE-MURE platform will allow policymakers to access data and tools for energy consumption and policy monitoring. Through two databases, they will be able to access 300 energy efficiency indicators and over 3 200 national energy efficiency measures.
Empowering EU Member States to combat energy poverty (ENERGY POVERTY NEXUS)
Energy poverty impacts different EU countries differently. Energy poverty observatories will be established in seven pilot countries. By enhancing national capacities and creating a sustainable framework, policymakers and stakeholders will be able to fight energy poverty, reducing household energy costs, improving indoor environments and the health of vulnerable communities, and leading to investments and improved legislation.
Building renovation efforts for zero emission buildings (BREEZE)
The BREEZE consortium from seven EU Member States aims to support the advancement of building renovation strategies by enhancing national databases for building energy performance, through gathering and harmonising stock data from France, Italy and Poland. Open software tools will help calculate renovations and plan renovation scenarios. Renovations will therefore become more efficient and comply with Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) standards.
Ireland
- Clean Energy Transition
Empowering the holistic energy retrofitting of One Stop Shops (HERO)
Ireland is unlikely to achieve the aim of 500,000 residential deep retrofits by 2030. The HERO project team will address current barriers of skilled contractor shortages and limited access to financing by empowering small contractors. A model for Ireland's One Stop Shop sector will be developed, and small contractors connected with financing solutions, to double the current rate of home renovations.
Building up pan-European skills in the building sector (BUSUnited)
The BUSUnited project will leverage the success of the BUILD UP Skills United project which funded over 90 projects across 32 countries to promote and develop sustainable energy skills among construction professionals. New objectives include the critical need for upskilling and reskilling within the building sector and engaging over 400 stakeholders from public authorities, training providers, industry and NGOs.
Greece
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Turning food related waste into animal feed (LIFE-INOFEED)
Food waste is a major source of greenhouse gases and large areas of valuable agricultural land are used to grow livestock feed. The project partners will create animal feed from waste fruit, vegetables, pasta, rice, bread and olive residues with an automated process that uses solar energy to dry the material and power the process, producing 1,600 tonnes of animal feed from food waste.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Sustainable transformation of waste to biomethane (LIFE-W2B)
Organic waste can release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere as it rots, contributing to climate change. The five project partners from Greece, Spain and Italy will build a pilot facility to convert organic waste into high added value biomethane through microbial digestion and gasification. The remaining material will create a nutrient rich form of charcoal that can be added to soil as a carbon sink.
- Clean Energy Transition
Accelerating renovation using quality data and AI-based data services (LiveBetter)
Renovation of buildings can be advanced and streamlined through AI-based and digital services. Part of LiveBetter is the launch of a Standardised Common European Digital Buildings Hub, with 15 AI-based services for renovation projects. This will focus on non-technical users and provide access to Energy Performance Certificates, digital building inspections and financing. Project partners include Belgium, Bulgaria, Greece, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg and Hungary.
Spain
- Nature and Biodiversity
Restoring the Ballesteros lagoons (LIFE BALLESTEROS)
The Natura 2000 Ballesteros lagoons and Moscas river valley in Spain's Castile-La Mancha region cover more than 250 ha of sinkholes and wetlands which are a haven for rare fish, plants and birds. Climate change, farming and water extraction have taken their toll, but habitats and wildlife will thrive again thanks to land purchase, habitat restoration, re-vegetation and an agri-environmental scheme.
Conserving endangered Mediterranean fan mussels (PINNACARE)
Disease and adverse conditions have driven the fan mussel to the brink of extinction across the Mediterranean. The LIFE PINNACARE team will improve habitats, relocate individuals, establish protection zones and support captive breeding across Greece, Spain, France, Croatia and Italy. More than 2,000 fan mussels and 100 ha of habitat will benefit, marking a significant step towards saving this important species.
Harmonising producer responsibility schemes across the EU (LIFE4EPR)
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) holds manufacturers accountable for the entire lifecycle of products and packaging, but the current lack of oversight creates a vacuum for policymakers, producers, recyclers and consumers. The project's academic and industry consortium will map EPR schemes in EU Member States, benchmark case studies, and pilot a harmonised EU-wide register to improve EPR understanding and boost circular economies.
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Addressing soil contamination with fungi and naturally occurring microbes (InBioSoil)
Soils contaminated with persistent organic pollutants are difficult to clean up, often requiring excavation. This project consortium will demonstrate an alternative – in-situ bioremediation, using living organisms to clean up the soil. The approach will develop an injection system for mycoremediation – using fungi to remove harmful substances – and bio stimulation of microbes in the soil. They will test the process by treating 300m² of contaminated soil in Belgium and Spain.
Improving sustainable purification of biogas using nature-based solutions (LIFE GreenCouple)
Producing biogas at wastewater treatment plants already offers a source of sustainable fuel, but it often contains harmful hydrogen sulphide. The multidisciplinary team aims to improve this process by creating ‘constructed wetlands' for treating the liquids – centrate – separated from the sludge in three wastewater treatment sites. The resulting nitrified centrate will then be used to remove the harmful hydrogen sulphide from biogas.
Sustainable solutions for amine recovery in foundries (LIFE REAMINE)
Amines are a type of non-methane volatile organic compounds that have negative impacts on the environment and human health. At the BESAIDE iron foundry in Elorrio, Spain, the six project partners will demonstrate an innovative and cost-efficient process to selectively capture and reclaim amines from foundry emissions, reducing pollution and allowing the amines to be reused.
Treating water and nutrient recovery using modular wetlands in small communities (LIFE smallWAT)
This multinational team from Denmark, France and Spain will improve water quality in very small settlements through the development of innovative modular wastewater treatment solutions, by combining advanced constructed wetlands with natural filtration to recover nutrients for reuse as fertiliser and ultraviolet C-LED light for disinfection. The solution will also reduce nutrients and organic pollution discharged into water bodies.
Separating complex plastics from electrical waste and vehicles for recycling (SENSE4LIFE)
Vehicles and electrical products contain complex combinations of plastics that are difficult to recycle and so usually end up in landfill or being incinerated. The five project partners will develop a first-of-its-kind mobile sorting unit using Terahertz scanning to sort various polymers by type, allowing them to be recycled into new high-value parts for the car industry.
Tackling mercury contamination of soil on site (LIFE HERMES)
Mercury-contaminated soil poses a risk to human health and the environment. A consortium of mining companies and researchers will demonstrate a technique using chemicals to stabilise mercury in soil in situ. This will eliminate the need to excavate and transport contaminated soil for disposal, minimising the potential spread of contaminants. It will be demonstrated at the world's largest mercury mine in Spain, and at a mine in Italy.
Improving air quality in ports by reducing particle emissions (LIFE PMFree-Ports)
EU ports handled more than 700 million tonnes of solid bulk cargo in 2023, emitting particulate matter that affects air quality in the surrounding areas. The six project partners, including four port authorities, will quantify particulate emissions at bulk cargo ports and develop methods to minimise them based on data about best practices and mitigation techniques.
- Environmental Governance and Information
Supporting nitrate governance through citizen-engaging tools (LIFE-NITRAZENS)
Nitrate contamination of groundwater is a significant threat to ecosystems and human health, particularly in agricultural areas. The consortium of 11 project partners will create a data sharing platform using citizen science to help monitor nitrate pollution in six pilot areas within Spain's Duero and Ebro river basins. They will implement mitigation strategies before sharing best practices with farmers and stakeholders for improving environmental nitrate levels.
Improving decision making to reduce flood risk in the Segura River Basin (LIFE FloodProof)
The Segura River Basin in Spain has recently suffered serious flooding events, with 265,000 people affected by 28 flooding events between 2015-2021. This consortium of nine partners will contribute to the Segura Flood Risk Management Plan in four high risk communities, fostering knowledge, technological-based planning, stakeholder cooperation and leveraging the participation of the local populations. The project will implement four nature-based pilot actions to increase permeability and improve urban drainage.
A tool to improve the management of fertilisers on farms (LIFE FERTI-WISE)
Excessive fertiliser use causes water, soil and air pollution. This large group of project partners will demonstrate how technology can reduce fertiliser use. They will trial Variable Rate Nutrient Application, a precision approach that applies fertiliser according to a plot's specific needs, and the SATIVUM platform, a free-access decision support tool developed by the Spanish Ministry for Agriculture.
Forecasting air quality for improvement and resilience (LIFE CLEAN-AIR)
Managing air quality is a challenge for many cities, particularly as pollution can often spike rapidly. This consortium of businesses and municipalities will demonstrate a tool called LLULL ENVIRONMENT to accurately forecast pollution levels. This will help decision-makers in four cities facing unique challenges – Murcia, Spain; Vilnius, Lithuania; Roman, Romania; Rzeszów, Poland – to know accurately when to activate mitigation measures.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Enhancing climate resilience of historical urban areas through building modelling (I-LIBIM)
The seven project partners from Spain and Portugal aim to enhance the climate resilience of historical urban areas, focusing on cultural heritage, vulnerable sites and their citizens. The project will develop, test and implement new construction solutions adapted to specific buildings with the help of a ‘building information modelling' tool to provide detailed predictions and options for adaptation, while respecting accessibility for all socio-economic groups.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Fast electric vehicle recharging services suitable everywhere (FREESVEE)
The growing number of electric vehicles is increasing the need for ultra-fast public charging stations. Prototypes of two different ultra-fast chargers will be tested at two service stations in different demographic areas, with moderate to weak power grid connections. FREESVEE will demonstrate how creating microgrids – combining renewable energy with short- or long-term battery storage – can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles and deliver reliable charging in a variety of situations.
Decarbonisation of concrete structures through mixed timber-concrete (LIFE TIMBER FOR ALL)
The use of timber can reduce reliance on concrete and its associated carbon emissions in construction. But there are limits to the situations in which it can be used. This consortium of researchers, industry organisations and a public agency will apply the principles of the New European Bauhaus to create low carbon timber-concrete composites which can be used in structures where timber alone is not currently feasible.
- Climate Governance and Information
Driving Catalonia's tourism sector to climate neutrality (TOUR4CLIMA)
Progress in decarbonising and adapting Europe's tourism sector to climate change has been slow. The 11 partners in this project will support the Climate Action Plan for the Tourism Sector in Catalonia (Spain) which offers a pilot solution by enhancing collaboration across government departments and industry sectors. They will share best practices for mitigation and adaptation through a Climate Hub.
- Clean Energy Transition
Linking Energy Communities with local plans and strategies (LIFE_PUBLINK)
Energy Communities should be key components of local and regional energy policies, but energy community projects are often isolated, one-time initiatives or lack support. Through governance models and engagement methods – focusing on heating/cooling systems and building renovations – Energy Communities in Germany, Spain and Poland will be integrated into policy-making processes and a Coalition of Cities for Energy Communities.
Scaling up an operational One Stop Shop for clean energy transition of Spanish buildings (EFFIC-OSS)
Addressing the internal and external barriers preventing the current business model from rapidly up-scaling, the project team will boost the existing One Stop Shop Integrated Renovation Service to a national level. Through training, digital tools and financial providers for more remote projects, the aim is to accelerate approved renovations from around 4,000 households currently to 180,000 by 2029.
Integrating services to upgrade energy renovations in private rental housing (INSPIRE-US)
The INSPIRE-US project tackles the urgent need for decarbonising the building sector, focusing on energy upgrades in Spain's private rented housing, which – with a renovation rate of 0.2% – is far below the EU's required 2-3% per year. The interdisciplinary team will create a One Stop Shop for diagnosis, financing, permits and grants, suppliers, technical supervision and evaluation – eventually expanding activities across Spain.
Building multi-stakeholder energy and climate assemblies (HANDS-ON)
There is a need to boost local and regional authorities' capacities and governance for developing clean energy transition policies. The project team will build cross-sector capacities and upskill multiple stakeholders across local and regional authorities through institutional working groups and assemblies. The learning process will be replicated in over 35 municipalities in Bulgaria, Denmark, Spain, Italy, Cyprus and the Netherlands.
Energy Business Cooperation schemes to maximise viability of solar photovoltaic installations (E-BUSCO)
The business sector needs a more resilient and efficient electricity grid and better access to renewables. However, barriers prevent businesses from benefiting from solar photovoltaic solutions. The BUSCO project team will foster collaboration between businesses to enhance the value and profitability of renewable energy. Innovative cooperation schemes will include the aggregation and sharing of generation and storage facilities for multi-business use, particularly small businesses.
Incentivising new district heating and cooling in European municipalities (IncentEU)
To support the development of new district heating and cooling networks in Estonia, Spain and France, the IncentEU team will implement a shared methodology including heat mapping, feasibility analysis, investment and operational and business models fully based on using low-temperature renewable energy or waste heat. The approach will be rolled out in Tallin, Barcelona and Strasbourg.
Driving inclusive, representative and equitable energy renovations (IRENE)
Energy poverty in Europe impacts health, social inclusion and quality of life. Inclusive strategies for renovating homes in multi-apartment buildings will be tailored to vulnerable communities in four cities in Belgium, Spain and Lithuania. One Stop Shops will provide technical, financial and legal support for people with limited resources to access energy improvements. Scalable models for renovations will be boosted across diverse urban neighbourhoods.
Municipal energy renovation initiative using a One Stop Shop approach (MERIT-OS)
Small and medium sized municipalities often lack specialists and resources for renovating public buildings. A One Stop Shop will accelerate the renovation rate, boost local circular economies and use existing models and financing options adapted to local needs. The project will be piloted in all four Catalonian provinces, supporting 293 municipalities and renovating 62 buildings, and replicated elsewhere in Spain and the EU.
Establishing new energy agencies to deliver the clean energy transition (4ENERAGENCIES)
Energy agencies can help achieve clean energy transition objectives. Four agencies will be established in Spain – in the Rivas municipality and on Gran Canaria – to create energy plans, implement projects and facilitate investment for improving energy efficiency, renewables and digitalisation, and local energy infrastructure. Project partners from Belgium and Spain include experts in energy agency establishment and energy management on islands.
Driving a One Stop Shop training programme for building efficiency (BUILD-OSS)
Around 70% of Spain's buildings rate poorly for energy efficiency. A comprehensive One Stop Shop (OSS) programme will train OSS managers, legal and financial experts, communication specialists, back-office staff, social workers, and health, safety, quality and environmental technicians. The multidisciplinary project will increase the number of certified professionals and promote workforce diversity. A sustainability strategy will ensure long-term impact and scalability across Europe.
France
- Nature and Biodiversity
Protecting seabirds across the oceans (LIFE OVERSEAS)
The Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans are home to a vast variety of seabirds, many of them threatened by habitat loss and degradation, predation by rats and cats, and man-made hazards including power lines, poisoning, light pollution and hunting. 15 endangered species on Reunion Island, and in French Polynesia, French Guiana and New Caledonia will benefit from activities including eliminating alien predators, restoring habitats and installing anti-collision devices on overhead power cables.
Green recovery for Ukraine (LIFE D2R-GreenUA)
Ukrainian and European cities and partners will develop a system for safely removing, sorting and reusing vast quantities of construction debris – including asbestos – resulting from the Russian invasion. Initially focusing on three cities in the Kyiv region, a pilot ‘replicable debris management methodology' and ‘circular comprehensive business model' will be trialled to turn construction waste into usable materials. The tested methodology and knowledge will be transferrable to other Ukrainian cities.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Solutions for optimising soil and water usage (SOURCES)
Climate change-driven drought is placing many river systems under increasing strain. This consortium of 12 organisations and government agencies will share and develop ways to encourage the sober use of water in the River Gardons watershed in southern France. They will also restore soil functions to increase water infiltration, slow the water flow and increase groundwater storage.
European ruminants Farmers for Adaptation to Climate Change (EFACC)
The livestock industry in Europe needs to adapt to the challenges brought about by climate change. The project brings together 38 partners from six EU countries to help 270 cattle, goat and sheep farmers adopt new practices to improve their resilience to climate change. Their experiences will be shared with 50,000 other farms, along with thousands of advisors, agricultural teachers and agricultural students.
Climate resilient solutions for productive soils and crops (CROPS LIFE)
Innovative farming practices can help agriculture adapt to climate change. The project partners will combine several approaches to promote sustainable agriculture, including ‘agrivoltaic panels' that create a controlled microclimate to protect crops from severe weather. In addition, a sophisticated water management system will harvest rainwater and reduce water waste. Integrating cover crops will further enhance soil structure, nutrient cycling and microbial activity.
- Clean Energy Transition
Enabling Energy Communities to SHINE across Europe (SHINE)
The successes of four existing LIFE projects will be harnessed to equip local and regional authorities to roll out more community energy initiatives through operational support services in four national pilots in Belgium, Spain, Italy and Poland, and replication in 11 additional ‘ambassador countries'. Services will include a One Stop Shop for Energy Communities, capacity building, direct in-person support and an ambassador network.
Building alliances to enable property owners to renovate properties (BAIL-RENOV)
In France, 1.5 million homes are not energy efficient, the majority being in the private rental sector. With the BAIL RENOV project, the Bail Rénov association will create an integrated service for property owners including a One Stop Shop, an end-to-end support package, financing models and a coordinated renovation journey managed on owners' behalf. This approach will be tested in a densely populated urban area and a rural one.
Building ambitious and innovative Community Energy financing schemes (UNAICE)
In France, €110 billion is needed every year to fund the clean energy transition by 2030, and mobilising private finance is a challenge. The UNAICE project team will build upon the work of the LIFE-CET ACCE project to establish a set of eight community energy financing schemes. UNAICE will mobilise citizen finance worth €50 million to fund projects in Energy Communities.
Academy for upskilling for renewable energy solutions (LIFE-SUNACADEMY)
Photovoltaic energy is a top priority for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. However, its growth is constrained by a lack of skilled labour. To bridge this gap in the sunny south of France, LIFE SUNACADEMY will develop 27 training programmes, aiming to train 1,752 installers, with a focus on residential and large solar installations, providing 70% of the regional demand for professionals.
Facilitating large scale renovation across multiple districts and markets (LIFE AREC)
Aiming to facilitate large-scale deep renovation, the Agro Reno Empower Collective (AREC) is a consortium of market transformers from Belgium, Germany, Ireland, France, Italy and the Netherlands. The consortium will drive change through improved retrofit packages for One Stop Shops, and a demonstration roadshow to scale up the demand. District-wide approaches and crowd funding will be promoted to drive large scale renovation instead of house-by-house works.
Collective self-retrofit practices to reduce costs of retrofit in multifamily buildings (Renew-It)
Tackling energy poverty requires deep energy retrofits of homes that vulnerable communities cannot afford. 19 partners from Germany, Spain, France, Latvia and the Netherlands will support collective self-retrofits for multifamily buildings through training programmes for residents with support from specialists and financing schemes to raise funds. Expected results are 15% cost reduction, new green jobs and skills for residents, and enhanced urban collaboration.
Croatia
- Nature and Biodiversity
Creating resilient mosaic Mediterranean landscapes (Mosaic of LIFE)
Mediterranean mosaic landscapes include farms, grassland, scrub, forests, dry stone walls and rural settlements. Farmers, foresters, firefighters and public institutions will help restore at least 550 ha of bush-encroached grassland and improve the management of a further 510 ha across eight degraded Natura 2000 sites in Central Dalmatia, Croatia. Local communities and nesting bird species will benefit from sustainable agriculture, forestry and tourism in a model which can be replicated across the Mediterranean.
Helping freshwater fish to thrive underground (Refresh Fish LIFE)
Five native freshwater fish species in Croatia's underground river systems are under threat from invasive alien species (IAS), as well as pollution, poor water quality and fragmented habitats. IAS will be discouraged from entering four Natura 2000 sites using electronic barriers and electro-fishing, while local schools, communities and recreational fishers will be encouraged to help protect freshwater biodiversity and clean up polluted waterways.
Italy
- Nature and Biodiversity
Boosting populations of endangered sturgeon (LIFE-RESTORE)
The Adriatic sturgeon is on the brink of extinction, but thanks to LIFE RESTORE's innovative captive breeding and restocking programme its numbers should increase to 14,000 individuals – 20 times the current level. Sturgeons will be tracked across 13 rivers and 45 Natura 2000 sites by volunteers and monitoring technology; invasive alien species removed from 170 km of rivers; and more than 200 000 people engaged through public awareness campaigns.
Reversing the decline of the Kentish plover (ALEXANDRO)
EU populations of ground-nesting Kentish plover have declined by at least 20% since 1980 due to tourism, beach cleaning, marine litter, predation, habitat degradation and coastal erosion in nesting habitats. Under LIFE ALEXANDRO, Kentish plover nesting areas across 57 Natura 2000 sites in Croatia and Italy will benefit from protection by managing conflicts between the main stakeholders, and actively involving local authorities and coastal communities.
New life for freshwater swamps (LIFE FRESH)
382 ha of freshwater marsh ecosystems across three Natura 2000 sites in Italy's Po Delta will be restored through a combination of hydraulic engineering and nature-based solutions. Water quality in eight marshes will be improved by reintroducing or repopulating native plant species to create a natural purification system. Other habitats and wildlife will also benefit, and a ‘marsh community' established from local volunteers and citizens.
Pollinator hotspots in city zoos (ZOO LIFE POLLINATORS)
Urban zoos are an untapped resource for reversing pollinator decline in our towns and cities. Eight zoos in major European cities – with a combined total of four million visitors each year – will restore over 900 ha of pollinator-friendly urban habitats, conduct breeding programmes and raise public awareness about declining pollinator populations. Guidelines and best practices will then be made available to other zoos across Europe.
Improving pollinator habitats in Italy (LIFE PolliNetwork)
The LIFE PolliNetwork team aims to boost the number and variety of pollinators across Italy by improving their wild habitats near roads, railway lines, power plants and farms in protected natural areas. Energy operators will be supported to expand their technical capacity, and a national action plan for creating positive impacts for pollinator conditions will be developed.
Sustainable management of marine and coastal habitats (LIFE terrAmare)
Mediterranean coasts and dunes are among the most threatened habitats in Europe. Decades of urban expansion, and excessive and unregulated tourism have severely degraded marine and coastal ecosystems. A total of 1,055 ha of marine, coastal and dune habitats in Greece and Italy will be restored with the support of local institutions, citizen associations, and marine operators to create ‘ecological beach communities'.
Mapping, protecting and restoring marine ecosystems (LIFE MAPPER)
Many European marine ecosystems have been destroyed by decades of over-exploitation and poor management — but the true extent of the damage remains unclear because existing maps often lack detailed data. LIFE MAPPER will develop mapping and restoration guidelines based on habitat quality, quantity, connectivity and cost-benefit, and make them publicly available through an online manual and knowledge platform.
Degassing inland waterway and maritime transport (LIFE4DEGAS)
Degassing occurs when oil tankers release harmful non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOCs) during loading and unloading. Despite international, national and EU rules, degassing remains widespread. The project consortium will establish an EU-wide cooperation structure involving legislators, policymakers, ports, the shipping and chemical industries, and NGOs with a view to further limiting, or completely banning, NMVOC degassing.
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Industrial recycling of silicon and silver from end-of-life photovoltaic panels (SIRCULAR)
Solar panels contain critical raw materials – silicon and silver – that are difficult to recover. The project partners from Germany and Italy will establish innovative industrial-scale processes to recycle solar panels at the end of their functional life to reduce their environmental impact. They aim to recover 2,000 tonnes of silicon metal, 300 tonnes of high-purity silicon and 1.25 tonnes of silver from 10,000 tonnes of panels a year.
New technologies for ski equipment recycling (LIFE re-WINTER)
Europe is a leader in winter sports equipment, producing 4.8 million pairs of skis and 3.5 million pairs of ski boots annually. But millions of ski products are discarded each year and their complex composition makes them hard to recycle. The project partners, including winter equipment companies, will develop a circular model and industrial-scale recycling plants to allow the reuse of materials in new ski gear.
Refurbishment LIFECycle management platform for printed circuit boards (RELIFE4PCBA)
Printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) are a key component in electrical devices, the fastest growing type of solid waste in the world. The four project partners will scale up a new PCBA refurbishment service to process up to 135,000 PCBAs per year, reducing the environmental impacts by up to 90% compared to new circuit boards, as well as reducing the use of critical raw materials.
Repairing end-of-life washing machines and regenerating spare parts (LIFE PHOENIX-WEEE)
The EU Right to Repair Directive requires manufacturers to encourage the reuse of their goods, but repairing large electrical appliances remains a challenge. The project partners will demonstrate how to increase the reuse of waste washing machines and washing machine parts by improving the waste treatment and by establishing new commercial outlets. The project will run a pilot to process 55,000 washing machines.
Optimised pavements to mitigate urban noise (LIFE OPTIMUS)
At least 20% of the EU population is exposed to road traffic noise at levels potentially harmful to health. The project partners will evaluate multiple properties of different low-noise pavements, including surface texture, costs, environmental impact, durability, noise, urban context, vehicle type and speed. The evaluations will help road managers and experts decide on the best solutions for urban areas.
Ultraviolet light to treat pests on apple and olive trees to reduce the use of pesticides (LIFE APOLLO)
Reducing pesticide use is a major challenge despite their negative effects on the environment and human health being well known. The project team aims to reduce pesticide use by more than 50% by developing an autonomous rover equipped with ultraviolet-C lamps to target parasite infections in apple orchards and olive groves. Additionally, the robot will selectively spray crops with pesticides if needed.
Hybrid-electric tomato harvester to reduce air pollution from agricultural machinery (LIFE LAERTHES)
Agricultural machinery is a significant contributor to air pollution due to its use of diesel engines. The project partners will develop the world's first tomato harvesting machines powered by hybrid diesel-electric engines. Two models will be available by the end of the project. They will reduce diesel use by 24% and cut pollutant emissions as a result.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Reducing flue gas emissions in the ceramic sector (LIFE inFLUEnCER)
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a particular challenge for the ceramics industry. The partners in this project will demonstrate a system for capturing flue gases including carbon dioxide from ceramics production, turning them into raw materials for other industrial applications. Results from the project will be relevant for other industries trying to reduce their reliance on traditional, carbon dense fuels.
- Climate Governance and Information
Net-zero emission trading systems (LIFE NETS)
The EU's Emissions Trading System will impact significantly on citizens as carbon prices rise and are extended to road transport and buildings. In this project, the European University Institute will create, analyse and share scientific knowledge to improve the assessment and implementation of trading emission trading systems. The project will support and improve understanding of these climate policies worldwide.
Empowering citizens to accelerate climate-friendly changes in EU food systems (FoodChoices4LIFE)
The food industry is a major contributor to climate change. The project partners will encourage citizens to make healthy and climate friendly choices about the food they eat. The European Food Information Council will work with chefs from around the world, using food waste, to give citizens the knowledge and skills they need to replicate good practices at home.
- Clean Energy Transition
Inclusion of outermost islands into Energy Communities (NESOIplus)
Remote islands face particular barriers in implementing Energy Communities, including low technical knowledge and distance from mainland Europe. The LIFE NESOIplus team from six EU Member States will build on the Horizon 2020 NESOI project's success to develop 30 bottom-up Energy Community projects in the Canary, Azores and Martinique islands through a One Stop Shop covering the whole value chain of Energy Communities.
Capacity building for municipalities and regions in implementing clean energy transition strategies (PLANtoACT)
Local and regional authorities often lack the capacity, integrated approaches and organisational structures needed to effectively deliver and implement clean energy transition plans and related sectoral strategies such as heating and cooling strategies. In 5 pilots across Europe, the PLANtoACT consortium from seven EU Member States will develop an integrated energy planning approach, with a specific focus on comprehensive heating and cooling strategies.
Advanced training for green and smart technology workforces (SKEMA)
Preparing the workforce for installing new green and smart technologies is crucial for implementing the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. This eight-partner consortium from Italy will create an Observatory Lab which provides training and monitors skill gaps and trends. Over 3,500 workers will be upskilled within five years of project completion. Trainers will benefit from a One Stop Shop providing resources and expertise.
Contributing to grid stability in the industrial sector (LEONARDO)
Electricity demand in Europe will increase to 250% between 2030 and 2050. ‘Demand side flexibility' resources stabilise the grid by shifting electricity at peak times. Through LEONARDO, Energy Management Systems from industries physically near each other will be aggregated to optimise collaborative demand flexibility. Pilot sites are in Bulgaria, Greece, Italy and Austria and a hub will assess how industries can be more flexible.
Community-led actions for efficient district heating and cooling (MUSE DHC)
Community district heating and cooling (DHC) networks can connect different sectors and use renewables and waste heat. Ten European partners will develop investment plans for nine new DHC networks in Ireland, Spain, France, Italy and the Netherlands, featuring financing and governance models for different building types and technologies. Local working groups or ‘Living Labs' will connect citizens, suppliers and supply chains.
Accelerating renovation of public buildings through a national network (RENOVA)
Small- and medium-sized municipalities often do not have technical capacity or financial support to carry out building renovations. A national network of local hubs – being piloted in Vicenza, Rome, Naples and Brindisi – will provide technical, legal, financial and renovation solutions to 50 municipalities. It will target 14 public buildings to renovate to nearly- or net-zero energy standards, with the potential to reach 1,835 buildings.
Latvia
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Restoring Latvia's aquatic ecosystems (LIFE RiverFlow)
The ten-partner project consortium will reduce the impact of alterations to the physical structure and flow of eight rivers and their tributaries across Latvia. A variety of innovative restoration solutions will be demonstrated, including removing obstacles, reconnecting tributaries and constructing natural fish passages. In total, the project will restore the natural continuity of 1,034 km of rivers, enhancing habitats for fish species including river lamprey and Atlantic salmon.
Hungary
- Nature and Biodiversity
Restoring salt steppes and marshes in Hungary (SAFEHAVENLIFE)
Hungary's iconic Pannonic salt steppes and salt marshes — and the meadow birds that live there — are threatened by depleted water supplies, invasive species and a lack of grazing. 1,038 ha of mosaic wetlands will benefit from better management and the elimination of invasive species. Restored habitats will encourage black-tailed godwit, redshank, garganey and pochard to breed, and progress will be monitored using AI and drones fitted with thermal imaging cameras.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Innovative municipal solutions for managing heatwaves in urban areas (LIFE COOL ZONE)
Heatwaves are increasing in frequency and intensity due to climate change. Focusing on the cross-border area of Debrecen, Hungary, and Oradea, Romania, the project partners will use high-resolution climate models to identify vulnerable areas, implementing adaptation interventions to address ‘heat islands' and reduce health impacts of heatwaves. The resulting Climate Vulnerability Assessments will inform policy and planning decisions in the region and allow replication elsewhere.
- Clean Energy Transition
Installing renewable energy on artificial and built surfaces (LIFE REALS)
Renewable energy permits face implementation barriers on artificial or built-up land. By 2028, through LIFE REALS, relevant authorities in Bulgaria, Spain, Hungary, Romania and Ukraine will be equipped to overcome these barriers and market constraints through training and an increased knowledge base. The aim will be to build more onshore wind and solar power sites on built-up and artificial brownfield land.
Netherlands
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Converting sludge from paper mill plant into valuable bio-products (SLUDGE2VALUELIFE)
Using an innovative, cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, the project team will turn sludge from a paper mill wastewater treatment plant into energy-dense biofuel and biogas. The sludge will be separated into solids – transforming them into a carbon-negative substrate – and liquid to be processed further. This treatment avoids using additional chemicals and is carried out at the plant, reducing the need for transport.
Circular wastewater treatment at the local neighbourhood level (LIFE SWITCH2O)
This consortium will demonstrate a fully circular wastewater treatment plant at a new housing project of 200 homes in the city of Sneek, the Netherlands. The project aims to demonstrate one of the most circular decentralised wastewater systems in the world, including local reuse of water, nutrients and energy at the neighbourhood level. Feasibility studies for a large-scale roll-out at the Fifth Village, the Netherlands, and Helsingborg, Sweden, will be conducted.
Bio-based materials for the insulation of energy-inefficient buildings (LIFE BIOMATINE)
Upgrading the insulation in historic social housing and monuments is essential for reducing the carbon footprint of these energy inefficient buildings. The project partners will demonstrate how natural ‘bio-based' materials made from agricultural waste can be used to upgrade insulation at two historical buildings sites in Amsterdam. The partnership plans to replicate the approach in 1,500 homes and ten historic buildings across the EU.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Towards climate-neutral homes with district heating (LIFE WOW)
This bottom-up project will demonstrate centralised district heating in an older, poorly insulated neighbourhood in Wageningen in the Netherlands, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions by minimising the use of gas. The project will connect 400 pre-1990 houses to a district heating system with a centralised heat pump, to generate 86-90% of the heat needed. This will be the first electric air-to-water heat pump using ammonia used on this scale.
- Clean Energy Transition
Capacity building for local and regional authorities (PROSPECT CUBE)
Implemented by a consortium from ten EU Member States, PROSPECT CUBE will upskill local and regional authorities to be able to implement sustainable energy actions that leverage private capital instead of only public funds. This will include innovative financing schemes and One Stop Shops for energy agencies and energy communities, tailored to regional needs and offered in eight EU languages, engaging with 500 authorities.
Maximising energy savings potential of transformers (EU-TRACE)
Old, inefficient and industrial transformers are responsible for 38% of EU electricity losses. Only 25%-30% of potential energy savings have been realised through replacement during transformers' natural lifespans. The EU-TRACE team aims to speed up the replacement process through new policies and tools, resulting in an additional 2.1 TWh/year in electricity savings over the next 20 years in Belgium, Germany, Greece, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal.
Upscaling high quality heat pump installations in leased buildings (HP-SUBSCRIBE)
In leased commercial and public buildings, energy improvements can be hindered by split incentives and responsibilities. HP-SUBSCRIBE will introduce a subscription model to help finance, install and maintain heat pumps so end-users pay costs over time, not upfront investments. As a result, property owners retain building values and tenants enjoy lower bills. Project partners include relevant stakeholders from Belgium, Ireland, Greece, France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Austria.
Austria
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Insect by-products as high-value organic fertiliser (LIFE Waste4Growth)
Insects are a source of high-quality protein for livestock and fish, but they produce waste in the form of droppings. The multinational project team will build upon the previous Waste2Protein project to turn 2,500 tonnes of insect droppings per year into enriched organic fertiliser for growing potato, maize, sugar beet, grapevine and olives, improving soil quality and reducing its vulnerability to climate change.
Carbon dioxide-neutral production of heating and cooling panels using recycled material (abatoncircular)
The engineering firm abaton has created a ceiling panel that can efficiently heat and cool rooms, dampen sound while also regulating humidity and condensation, helping buildings adapt to climate change. The company will demonstrate an automated large-scale production process for the panels – using recycled concrete rubble – and prepare for CO2-neutral mass production. The company aims to improve energy savings by 10-30% compared to existing space cooling technologies.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Financing climate-resilient cities (impaQt)
Local municipalities need new ways to finance urban resilience to rising temperatures and heavy rainfall events. The project partners will develop an innovative impact-based financing approach to enable adaptation solutions at a larger scale. To demonstrate this, a parking lot in Austria will be turned into an inner-city forest, while a street in Germany will be made rainwater self-sufficient. The impacts will be monitored, with the aim of scaling up solutions for whole neighbourhoods.
- Clean Energy Transition
Boosting high-quality heat pump systems in residential and office buildings (HQHeatpumpServices)
Heat pumps are key to phasing out fossil fuels, but barriers to their introduction in multi-apartment and mixed-use buildings include upfront costs and installation issues. A heat service contracting model will provide support for planning, implementing and operating new heat pump systems in residential and office buildings. The concept and tools will be implemented first in Germany, Latvia, Austria and Portugal before large-scale roll-out.
Accelerating public sector energy efficiency by mobilising private funds (LEVERAGE)
Private financing can fund energy efficiency and decarbonisation investments in public bodies. Over 40 public and private stakeholders support this project which includes a LEVERAGE Accelerator to raise financing and connect stakeholders to financeable proposals, mentorship and training. Partners from Belgium, Czechia, Germany, Greece, Spain, Croatia, Italy, Latvia, Austria and Slovenia are aiming for 71 projects and over €56 million in crowdfunding.
Decarbonising heat supplies of buildings in dense urban areas (HeaTogether)
Neighbourhood heating and cooling networks bridge the gap between district and household heating, promoting the decarbonisation of existing building stocks. Investment plans will be prepared for 15 neighbourhoods in Czechia, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria before being rolled out to wider neighbourhoods. Expected results include €155 million of investment, energy savings and decarbonisation impacts of up to 80% per neighbourhood.
Poland
- Nature and Biodiversity
Nature-based solutions for restoring river and riparian ecosystems (LIFE for RIVERS)
Over time, the Parsęta river in north-west Poland been partially blocked by man-made barriers which disrupt the water flow, disconnect the river from its floodplains, damage fish populations and degrade riparian habitats. The project team will establish a volunteer-based ‘Parsęta Rangers' programme to help return the river to its natural state, promote public involvement in river restoration and serve as a demonstration for other European river basins.
- Climate Change Adaptation
Nature-based solutions to ease agricultural impact on water resources (LIFE RIVEREASE)
Nature-based solutions can reduce the combined impact of agriculture and climate change on river basins. The nine project partners will test nature-based solutions, developing IT tools to design and monitor their impact on two rivers in Poland, before replicating in Denmark and Germany. They aim to identify solutions to enhance water retention, reduce nutrient run-off and improve ecosystems for implementation across the EU.
- Clean Energy Transition
Implementing integrated building renovation services and support for municipalities (RenOSS-PL)
The RenOSS team will accelerate energy renovation in Poland by establishing two One Stop Shops to support municipalities in carrying-out energy renovations. Efforts will focus on small- and medium-sized municipalities and local government investors in two regions before being rolled out across Poland. The project will target at least 40 public buildings, and up to 4,800 public buildings within five years of project completion.
Portugal
- Nature and Biodiversity
Helping wild pollinators to thrive (LIFE POLINIZACORES)
Located more than 1,000 km west of Portugal, the Azores are famed for their wild beauty. Over time, however, pollinator habitats have suffered from a combination of poor management, climate change and alien invasive species. In line with the EU Pollinators' Initiative, habitats and urban ecosystems on four of the nine Azorean islands will be restored and reconnected with the help of local businesses and citizens.
- Clean Energy Transition
Powering community energy investments in Catalonia (POWER2PPL)
The LIFE POWER2PPL team will support public, private, citizen and social promoters of sustainable energy investments in Catalonia (Spain) to prepare and implement projects. Services will include engineering, financial and legal support, assistance in overcoming barriers, and increasing investment and awareness. Over 70 projects totalling €55 million are currently on the programme including on-roof and on-ground solar, and mini hydro and heat pumps in public buildings.
Enhancing cooperative One Stop Shop services (RenoCOOP)
The RenoCOOP team will enhance citizen-led energy cooperatives' role in home renovation by enhancing their One Stop Shop (OSS) services. The focus will be on improved collaboration with building companies, and encouraging neighbourhood-level and long-term interventions. OSS from five cooperatives in Belgium, Ireland, Spain, France and Portugal will initially be improved, before focusing on replication to leverage the number of energy cooperatives involved in renovations.
Slovakia
- Nature and Biodiversity
Protecting endangered birds from invasive alien species (LIFE IAS_SK)
American mink, raccoons, racoon dogs and coypus are wreaking havoc among bird populations in Slovakia. LIFE IAS_SK aims to be an effective, systematic, long-term programme covering 13 special protected areas where vulnerable birds with specific habitat requirements breed, and where the elimination of invasive alien species (IAS) is an urgent priority for protecting native fauna, habitats and biodiversity.
Finland
- Nature and Biodiversity
Increasing the resilience and viability of wild forest reindeer (LIFEline4Fennicus)
Finland's wild forest reindeer are the last of their kind in the EU, but their populations are fragmented and listed as ‘near threatened'. LIFEline4Fennicus applies a One Plan Approach, integrating wild and zoo populations to improve their resilience, welfare and health in two national parks. Genetic diversity will also be improved and reindeer herders encouraged to avoid interbreeding with domestic animals.
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Wood-based foam for multifunctional insulation (LIFEMODWISE)
Mineral wool and plastic-based foams used in construction and packaging in the EU are polluting, non-renewable and non-compostable, with 98% ending up in landfills or in nature. Finnish packaging company Fiberwood Oy will demonstrate innovative building insulation and packaging materials using a new plastic-free, wood-based foam-forming technology. It promises to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and chemical pollution from insulation materials.
Sweden
- Nature and Biodiversity
Restoring species-rich mosaic heath landscapes (Heath LIFE)
Species-rich Northern Atlantic wet heaths and European dry heaths are crucial for pollinating insects, butterflies and lizards — but many are currently overgrown, fragmented and damaged by intensive farming. Adaptive management techniques including controlled burning, grazing and clearing will be employed by the Heath LIFE team to restore nearly 2,000 ha of heathland and to create mosaic habitats which benefit native species and wild pollinators.
- Environment and Resource Efficiency
Wood-based biopolymers to replace fossil- and food-based polymers (LIFE WOODMER)
The project aims to validate the industrial scale production of an alternative to fossil-based plastic heat seal coatings used in packaging in Finland, Italy and Sweden. The sustainable production method will generate bio-plastics from wood pulp and it will reduce the use of hazardous chemicals, such as PFAs.
High performing acoustic ceiling panels made from recycled low-carbon mineral wool (Ceilings4LIFE)
Every year, 2.5 million tonnes of waste glass wool used to insulate buildings goes to landfill. The five project partners from Poland, Slovenia and Sweden will consolidate a circular value chain and scale up a new recycling technology for glass wool acoustic ceiling and wall panels, demonstrating that recycling post-consumer sound absorbers to produce new sound absorbers is possible, dramatically reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
- Climate Change Mitigation
Scaling up innovative materials to enable the hydrogen economy (LIFE HYDROGRAPH)
Hydrogen technologies could eliminate 10% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, but hydrogen is difficult to store and transport. The project team will build a pilot facility to scale up production of polymer-graphene composite materials for use in high-pressure vessels and pipes necessary for storing hydrogen. This unique solution will reduce hydrogen gas emissions from storage and transport by up to 80%, enabling the widespread rollout of hydrogen.
Iceland
- Nature and Biodiversity
Restoring and reconnecting Iceland's lowland peatlands (Peatland LIFEline)
Peatland LIFEline is Iceland's first holistic, landscape-level watershed conservation project. The country's rare lowland volcanic peatlands form an important stepping stone on both the African/Eurasian and circumpolar migratory bird flyways and are home to Baltic dunlin, black-tailed godwit and redshank. The Peatland LIFEline team will help restore and protect these unique volcanic habitat and breeding sites by developing management plans, guidelines and a knowledge exchange platform.
Ukraine
- Nature and Biodiversity
Managing Ukraine's urban water supplies (LIFE-U-SPRING)
Ukraine's water supply and wastewater treatment systems are outdated, poorly managed and regulated, inadequately funded and badly damaged by the Russian invasion. European and Ukrainian experts will develop and pilot technical, financial and managerial solutions aligned with EU Water Directives and best practices in the Western Bug and Syan river basins which can then be rolled out elsewhere.
- Clean Energy Transition
Creating a missing link to energy efficient performance of buildings (LEEP)
LIFE LEEP aims to enhance energy efficiency and reduce emissions in multi-apartment buildings in Rivne, Ukraine. An Energy Efficiency Office will be established as a One Stop Shop to provide energy audits, technical assistance and funding support, as well as promoting energy efficiency among residents and building managers. Expected results included 50% more investment and energy savings for owners and tenants.