The BESTLIFE2030 Programme has hit a major milestone. In its second call for proposals, it has unlocked over €8 million to fund 81 locally led projects dedicated to protecting biodiversity in the EU’s outermost regions and overseas countries and territories.
This isn’t just about funding; it’s about empowering the people on the front lines of conservation. These regions are home to some of Europe’s most unique—and threatened—species, and this investment ensures they get the protection they deserve.
Direct Action on the Ground While some grants focus on research, this round is all about “getting hands dirty”. The selected projects prioritise:
- Ecosystem & Species Restoration: Bringing degraded habitats and endangered wildlife back to health.
- Sustainable Management: Balancing human activity with nature.
- Invasive Species Control: Tackling the external threats that disrupt local balance.
- Resilience: Strengthening the natural defences of these vulnerable regions.
Power to the Locals One of the highlights of this round is the diversity of the leaders involved. By broadening eligibility, BESTLIFE2030 has enabled NGOs, research hubs, and local authorities to take the wheel. This “bottom-up” approach ensures that conservation efforts aren’t just generic plans but tailored solutions designed by those who know the land best.
What’s Next? As these 81 projects move into the implementation phase, the momentum is only growing. With two more calls for proposals on the horizon, the programme is well on its way to fully deploying its €23.4 million budget to safeguard our planet’s future.