The European Union’s flagship environmental program, LIFE, is facing scrutiny after a recent audit revealed a lack of clarity regarding the impact of its “strategic projects” designed to address climate change. The European Court of Auditors (ECA) report, released this week, found that over €700 million in funding allocated between 2014 and 2020 hasn’t demonstrably delivered on its promises to improve environmental outcomes in member states. The audit focused on projects in Finland, Poland, and Spain.
The LIFE program aims to support the implementation of EU environmental and climate policies, including initiatives to restore nature, protect water resources, and improve air quality. However, the ECA’s findings raise concerns about the effectiveness of these funds and the EU’s ability to meet its ambitious environmental goals.
Impact of EU Climate Funds Remains “Unclear”
Auditors assessed 22 projects and concluded that their overall impact is “unclear,” according to the ECA report. This lack of demonstrable results undermines the benefits for the countries and regions receiving the funding. A key issue identified was the infrequent sharing of lessons learned and best practices, limiting opportunities to replicate successful approaches and maximize the program’s reach.
Furthermore, the ECA found that project selection didn’t consistently prioritize the most pressing environmental and climate needs of member states. Weaknesses were also identified in how sustainability results were measured and reported for some projects. The report emphasizes that current monitoring methods are inadequate for evaluating the contribution of LIFE strategic projects to broader EU environmental objectives.
Reporting Deficiencies Highlighted
Joëlle Elvinger, the ECA member responsible for the audit, expressed regret over the European Commission’s “inconsistent” tracking of additional funding secured from national or private sources. The Commission reportedly provided forecasts of spending rather than actual amounts spent per project, hindering transparency and accountability.
“Weaknesses remain in prioritizing needs, monitoring progress, and sharing results,” Elvinger stated. “In addition, the long-term effects and lasting benefits of the projects are often unclear.”
This critical assessment comes shortly after the Commission announced a further €358 million in funding for 123 new projects under the LIFE program. Between 2014 and 2020, the program allocated €701 million to 70 strategic projects, with an additional €436 million awarded to 25 projects since 2021.
The Commission, in a 2024 review, maintains that LIFE has improved the conservation status of 435 species and reduced pollution, claiming a tenfold return on investment. However, the ECA report casts doubt on the robustness of these claims.
Shift in Funding Priorities Raises Concerns
The scrutiny of the LIFE program coincides with a controversial decision by the Commission to merge its funding into broader cohesion and competitiveness funds for the 2028-2034 budget. This move has sparked criticism from environmental groups who fear it will dilute the focus on biodiversity and environmental protection.
Patrick ten Brink, Secretary General of the European Environmental Bureau, labeled the Commission’s plan as “sabotage,” arguing that it undermines a vital tool at a critical time. Brooke Moore, a research analyst at the European Policy Centre, warned that the shift risks prioritizing industrial interests over environmental concerns, potentially impacting air quality and nature restoration efforts.
Moore explained that LIFE’s objectives are now largely incorporated into the European Competitiveness Fund, with biodiversity relegated to narrower concepts like the “bioeconomy” and dispersed across various budget lines.
A Commission spokesperson confirmed to Euronews that LIFE funding will be integrated with other EU funding programs. They stated that the objectives and actions previously financed by LIFE will continue to be supported through National and Regional Partnership Plans and the Competitiveness Fund.
The future of dedicated EU environmental funding remains uncertain. Stakeholders will be closely watching how the integrated funding streams perform in supporting environmental and climate objectives. It is crucial to monitor the implementation of these new funds to ensure that environmental protection doesn’t lose momentum amidst competing priorities.