The European Union has initiated 30 new projects focused on combating climate change and restoring aquatic ecosystems, backed by over €200 million in funding through the Horizon Europe missions.

Approximately 500 beneficiaries from 34 countries are engaged in these initiatives, which include a diverse array of participants such as small and medium-sized enterprises, research organizations, local authorities, and educational institutions.

These projects are designed to support two primary EU Missions: Adaptation to Climate Change and Restore Our Ocean and Waters by 2030, enhancing resilience to climate risks and improving marine and freshwater ecosystems.

The funding allocation for these projects includes nearly €113 million for climate adaptation, close to €48 million for ocean and water health, and approximately €54 million for community projects aimed at restoring aquatic environments.

Out of 32 selected projects, 30 have successfully signed grant agreements with the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) between April and July 2025, facilitating resources for Europe's green transition.

Additionally, an extra €14 million grant has been allocated to support public infrastructure for the European Digital Twin Ocean, awarded without a call for proposals due to specific technical requirements.

Horizon Europe, the EU's flagship research and innovation program, operates from 2021 to 2027 with a total budget of €95.5 billion, focusing on addressing significant societal challenges through coordinated actions.

CINEA is responsible for implementing three of the five Horizon Europe Missions, highlighting the EU's commitment to engaging diverse stakeholders in environmental initiatives.

Specifically, the funding breakdown reveals €113 million designated for 17 projects under the HORIZON-MISS-2024-CLIMA-01 call, nearly €48 million for 7 projects under the HORIZON-MISS-2024-OCEAN-01 call, and about €54 million for 5 projects under the HORIZON-MISS-2024-OCEAN-02 call.

These projects aim to tackle challenges related to climate resilience and ecosystem restoration, with anticipated broad impacts on communities and ecosystems affected by climate change.