Greens Slam EU's Plan to Ax LIFE Program Amid Biodiversity Crisis
The Greens in the European Parliament have slammed the European Commission's decision to axe the LIFE program from the next budget, deeming it 'irresponsible' given the ongoing biodiversity crisis. The LIFE program, with a budget of around 5.5 billion euros, has been a key contributor to the European Green Deal.
The LIFE program, which stands for 'Financing of the Environment and Climate Action', has been instrumental in supporting over 1,000 projects in Spain and around 6,000 initiatives across the EU. These projects span areas such as nature and biodiversity, circular economy, and climate change mitigation and adaptation. NGOs have expressed concern about the potential loss of significant support for nature restoration and conservation projects in the new budget.
The European Commission has decided to eliminate the LIFE program in its draft budget, with plans to integrate its objectives into the new Competitiveness Fund and national and regional plans. The Commission foresees the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) continuing the activities previously supported by the LIFE programme. However, critics argue that this move may not provide the same level of dedicated support for environmental initiatives.
The LIFE program's track record speaks for itself, having helped achieve remarkable goals like the recovery of the Iberian lynx, bearded vulture, and black vulture. Its repeal would significantly impact one of the EU's most effective tools for nature, climate, and public health. The Greens' criticism highlights the potential consequences of this decision on the EU's commitment to tackling the biodiversity crisis and achieving its climate goals.
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