Bruxelles
Wednesday 25 March 2026
Keeping LIFE alive for a standalone LIFE programme in the next MFF
16.30 - 18.00
Conference
S&D Group at the European Parliament and PES Group at CoR
Rue Wiertz 60 (Room 3G3)
1050
Bruxelles
from:
EN, FR, ES, IT, DE, PT
Sustainable Development Goals
Keeping LIFE alive: the need for a standalone LIFE programme in the next MFF Since 1992, the LIFE Programme has been the EU’s dedicated funding instrument for environment, nature, biodiversity, and climate action, supporting over 6,500 projects, including the recovery of the Iberian lynx. LIFE provides civil society, environmental NGOs, public bodies, and local associations with resources for advocacy, monitoring, and strategic action in the public interest.
With the upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, there is a risk that LIFE could lose its status as a standalone fund. The S&D Group is working to ensure the programme retains its independence and ambition, highlighting its importance for effective environmental action and support for local and regional authorities. This event aims to raise awareness among stakeholders about maintaining a strong, standalone LIFE Programme under the next MFF.
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Speakers
PROGRAMME
16.30 - 18.00
PROGRAMME
16:30-16:40 Introduction and presentation of the joint S&D and PES Groups Statement
Introductory remarks by Christophe Clergeau, S&D Vice President, and Luca Menesini, PES Group President at CoR
16:40-17:15 The LIFE Program for climate mitigation and adaptation Moderated by Annalisa Corrado, S&D MEP
Arianna Censi, Member of the PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions, ENVE Coordinator, Councillor for Mobility of the City of Milan
Adriana Rodríguez Rivera, Climate and Public Finance Analyst, Climate Strategy Chris Vrettos, Senior Policy Advisor, REScoop.eu
17:15-17:50 Impact of LIFE on biodiversity, water and waste management
Moderated by César Luena, S&D MEP
Matteo Lepore, Member of PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions and Mayor of Bologna (online)
Roby Biwer, Member of PES Group in the European Committee of the Regions, NAT Coordinator, Municipal Councillor of Bettembourg and President of natur&ëmwelt
José Almodóvar Aráez, Vice Minister for the Environment, Junta de Castilla-La Mancha (online)
17:50-18:00 Conclusion
Concluding remarks by Nicolás Gonzáles Casares, S&D ENVI Shadow Rapporteur of the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF)
Interpretation in EN, FR, ES, IT, DE, PT