Austria, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain have called on the Council to ensure the LIFE Programme remains a standalone instrument in the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), warning that integrating it into broader funds like the European Competitiveness Fund risks losing its dedicated environmental focus. The call comes in a note submitted for the Council (Environment) meeting scheduled for 25 June 2026.
The four member states argue that LIFE is the only EU fund exclusively dedicated to environment and climate action, covering biodiversity, circular economy, climate change and energy transition. Since 1992, LIFE has co-financed over 6,000 projects and mobilised more than €12 billion. The note highlights that the EU faces a triple crisis of biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution, and that LIFE supports multilevel governance involving regional and local authorities.
The member states express concern that current MFF negotiations may water down specialised instruments, with allocations for biodiversity and nature restoration lower than those currently in force. They seek discussion on LIFE’s design, funding and coordination with other programmes, and note that the European Parliament and regional and local stakeholders have emphasised LIFE’s importance.
Stakeholder impact - EU environmental NGOs and project beneficiaries: Positive impact if LIFE remains standalone, as it preserves a dedicated funding stream for environmental projects. Negative impact if merged, as access to funds may become more competitive and less targeted. - National and regional authorities: Positive impact from continued multilevel governance support. Negative impact if integration reduces flexibility or increases administrative burden. - EU institutions (Commission, Council, Parliament): Positive impact from simplified programme management if merged, but negative impact from potential loss of environmental focus and stakeholder trust. - Business sectors (e.g., circular economy, renewable energy): Positive impact from continued dedicated funding for green innovation. Negative impact if funding becomes diluted across broader competitiveness objectives.
Institutional follow-up The Council (Environment) is expected to discuss the note during its meeting on 25 June 2026. The European Parliament will also weigh in on the MFF negotiations, with a plenary debate scheduled for July 2026. The Commission is to present its MFF proposal later this year.