EU Proposes End to Successful LIFE Program, Facing Environmental Backlash
The European Commission has proposed to discontinue the LIFE program, a successful initiative with a €5.5 billion budget over seven years, as part of its budget reform simplification. The program, which has contributed significantly to the European Green Deal, faces criticism from environmental organizations and experts.
The LIFE program, dedicated to Environment and Climate Action, has achieved remarkable results, such as the recovery of endangered species like the Iberian lynx, bearded vulture, and black vulture. It has supported over 6,000 initiatives in nature and biodiversity, circular economy, and climate mitigation and adaptation.
Critics argue that eliminating LIFE may lead to a lack of significant support for nature restoration and conservation projects. Patrick ten Brink, secretary general of the European Environmental Bureau, described the move as 'sabotage' and 'gutting one of the EU's most effective tools' for nature, climate, and public health. German environmental organizations, represented within the Deutscher Naturschutzring (DNR), also expressed concern about the abolition of the LIFE program.
The European Commission, however, defends its decision, stating that the objectives of the LIFE program will be maintained through the new Competitiveness Fund and national and regional plans. The WWF organization, nevertheless, warns that merging LIFE into broader funds may result in vital action for nature and climate no longer being funded.
The LIFE program, with its €5.5 billion budget, has successfully contributed to the European Green Deal and achieved significant results in nature and climate protection. Despite the European Commission's assurance that the program's objectives will be maintained, environmental organizations remain critical of its abolition, fearing a lack of support for crucial projects.
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