European Union - LIFE

Several European Union sources of funding have been used for shingle related projects. LIFE, which is the Financial Instrument for the Environment, introduced in 1992, is one of the main means through which the European Union environmental policy is progressed. It co-finances projects in two areas relevant to shingle management and restoration:

1. LIFE Nature - involves actions aimed at conservation of natural habitats and the wild fauna and flora of European Union interest, according to the Birds and Habitats directives. They support implementation of the nature conservation policy and the Natura 2000 Network of the European Union;
2. LIFE Environment - involves actions which aim to implement the Community policy and legislation on the environment in the European Union and candidate countries. This approach enables demonstration and development of new methods for the protection and the enhancement of the environment;

Further information on the LIFE programmes and projects is available on the LIFE home page at (http://europa.eu.int/comm/environment/life/home.htm) which provides information on:

• the programme in general terms and the three components (a third element is for Life - third countries);
• what's happening within the programme, for example upcoming LIFE events, selection of new projects, other opportunities etc.;
• practical steps when applying for funding - annual deadlines, application forms, who to contact etc.;
• the results and lessons of the LIFE programme;
• past, present and future projects;
• all the operators involved in the day to day work on the programme;
• contacts at all levels, such as with European institutions, Member States, candidate countries, external teams, Mediterranean and Baltic Sea countries, etc.