EU reveals exceptional nature, environment and climate action projects
The EU’s LIFE programme has announced the winners of the 2020 LIFE Awards. Now in their 14th year, the Awards recognise the most innovative, inspirational and effective LIFE projects in three categories: nature, environment and climate action.
When floods strike, LIFE is there to help
In Europe, floods are on the rise due to climate change. These extreme weather events often result in human tragedy, loss of life and economic losses. The environment also suffers with wildlife habitats being destroyed and water bodies being polluted. Several LIFE projects are working hard to alleviate the situation.
New LIFE climate action projects: applicants seek nearly €500 million in EU funding
In response to the EU LIFE programme’s 2020 call for climate action projects, the European Commission has received 258 new proposals. This represents a 55% rise on last year’s figures. It also shows a growing commitment to tackle and adapt to climate change.
Have a safe flight: helping migratory birds on their way
Migratory birds are vital for Europe’s biodiversity. Travelling thousands of kilometres each year, they pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and control pests. But their lives are at risk due to factors such as climate change, pesticides, power lines, intensive agriculture, and illegal poaching. Several LIFE projects are helping reduce the many threats these birds face.
Changing the rules: A new, green blueprint for waste management in Europe
Sustainable waste management is a key part of any green business strategy. An international company based in Sweden has embarked on a LIFE project that shows how reducing the waste from your business can protect the environment while boosting profits.
LIFE at Ecomondo 2020: EU funding for your circular ideas
Once again, the LIFE programme will take part in Ecomondo, the annual trade fair for the green and circular economy. The expo will take place in Rimini, Italy, from 3 to 6 November 2020. It will bring together all sectors of the circular economy, from material and energy recovery to sustainable development.
Social media tips to promote your LIFE project
Not every LIFE project uses social media channels. But this means of communicating is extremely effective in telling your audience about your activities in a compelling way. LIFE Stop Cortaderia is using social media to help eradicate Pampas grass - one of Europe’s most harmful invasive species.
Sustainable agriculture: helping EU farmers adapt to climate change
Extreme weather events like droughts and storms are having a devastating impact on European agriculture. For many farmers, the damage and losses can threaten their very existence. They need to act quickly to protect their livelihoods from climate change. The team at LIFE AgriAdapt has come up with some practical ways to help farmers cope with this problem.
Forest fires: how LIFE is dealing with a burning issue
Forests are home to 80% of the Earth's biodiversity. But they are under severe threat due to climate change. In summer 2017, the land burned by wildfires in Spain, Italy, and Portugal was equivalent to a quarter the size of Belgium. And in 2018, even Sweden was affected, reporting its worst fire season ever. Several LIFE projects are working to help our forests cope with this rising threat.
How LIFE improves Europe’s bathing water quality
After spending so many months at home, many of us are yearning for some time by the water this summer. But with heavy rainfall on the rise due to climate change, urban sewerage systems sometimes overflow, polluting bathing areas. Researchers at LIFE iBATHWATER have come up with some cutting-edge solutions to help deal with the problem.