Press release
EU Parliament vote on environmental funding confirms green transition is non-negotiable
31 March 2025
In a significant win for environmental protection and climate action, the European Parliament's Environment Committee has voted to uphold crucial funding for environmental and climate projects, including support for environmental NGOs, through the EU’s LIFE programme.
The LIFE programme provides around €700 million each year for environmental conservation and climate efforts, supporting organizations like local NGOs, small businesses, and local authorities in the fight against climate change and for nature protection.
But conservative and far right MEPs have recently pushed to stop funding environmental NGOs active at EU level – in a deeply troubling move for environmental protection and democracy.
This evening, MEPs have voted down the resolution brought by MEPs Sander Smit (PPE) and Pietro Fiocchi (ECR) to cut this funding to environmental NGOs working at EU level from 2025 onwards.
Head of ClientEarth’s Brussels office Anaïs Berthier said:
“With this vote, the European Parliament has sent a clear message that the green transition is non-negotiable, and protecting our environment remains a top priority for the Environment Committee. The LIFE funding will continue to support vital grassroots organisations, local authorities, and small enterprises, all of whom are crucial in driving real change across Europe.
"Today's outcome 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.
“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.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
The EU’s LIFE programme, the bloc’s main funding instrument for nature conservation and climate action totals around €700 million per year or 0.3% of the EU budget. As part of this programme, the EU Commission allocates €15.6 million (0.006% of the EU budget) annually across many different environmental NGOs to support their nature and climate work in providing evidence-based, scientifically supported and fundamentally constructive recommendations to EU policymakers.
About ClientEarth
ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account, and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. From our offices in Europe, Asia and the USA we shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.