EU votes in favour of environmental protection funding

On the 31st of March, the European Parliament’s Environment Committee reaffirmed its commitment to environmental and climate funding, securing a major victory for climate action and nature protection.

In a tight vote, the committee rejected an attempt to stall the LIFE Programme – a crucial fund that supports climate action and nature conservation. Each year, the LIFE Programme channels approximately €700 million into grassroots initiatives, empowering NGOs, small businesses, and local authorities to drive real environmental and climate solutions across Europe.

ERF partner Birdlife Europe affirmed: “LIFE funding doesn’t just protect species, habitats, and people from fires, droughts, and floods. It keeps grassroots organisations like BirdLife Europe and Central Asia running. It allows us to operate independently, coordinate at EU level, and bring practical, local solutions to decision-makers. Cutting it would have silenced those working with farmers, fishers, businesses, and local communities to build a sustainable future. This wasn’t just an attack on environmental groups – it was an attack on anyone fighting for a liveable planet.”

However, this victory comes against the backdrop of a broader struggle for environmental advocates at the EU level. In recent months, conservative and far right MEPs have intensified efforts to defund environmental NGOs at the EU level and dismantle key elements of the European Green Deal.

One alarming development was the introduction of the Omnibus Simplification Package – an initiative aimed at enhancing competitiveness by reducing corporate regulation around environmental and human rights practices.

Anaïs Berthier, of ERF partner ClientEarth, said the latest victory sent a clear message that; “the green transition is non-negotiable, and protecting our environment remains a top priority for the Environment Committee… [it] is also a victory for democracy, recognising and valuing – rather than denigrating – the crucial role of civil society organisations in maintaining the democratic legitimacy of the EU and its connection to the people it serves.”

She concluded; “We remain steadfast in our call for continued support for both environmental organisations and civil society at large. With an eye on upcoming votes and budget discussions, we urge EU decision-makers to continue prioritising funding that will foster a sustainable, just, and democratic future for all Europeans.”