LIFE Programme draws the crowds at the Green Transition Forum 5.0

LIFE projects play a critical role in achieving the European Green Deal and the transition to a carbon-neutral Europe by 2050. With more than 5 500 participants, the Green Transition Forum 5.0 in Sofia, Bulgaria was an opportunity for the LIFE programme to showcase its work and to promote the current 2025 LIFE Call for Proposals.

Among the visitors to the LIFE stand was KCM, Bulgaria's leading producer of zinc and lead and coordinator of the LIFE RECAD project which aims to slash the levels of cadmium being discharged into the Chaya River, a protected Natura 2000 site.

'Visiting the LIFE Programme stand was important as part of our drive to raise awareness among local businesses, municipalities and communities,' says project manager Hristo Terziev of KCM. 'From wastewater to valuable industrial resource, LIFE RECAD is advancing circular solutions for the metal sector, thanks to targeted support from the LIFE Close-to-Market initiative.'

The Forum - which featured 350 speakers from 32 countries participating in more than 40 thematic panels over 5 days - also attracted 3 European Commissioners and Ministers from Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Turkey and Albania. Speaking on the panel discussion Sustainable Development of the Regions. Carbon-Neutral and Smart Cities: From Vision to Reality, Hans Rhein, Head of the LIFE Energy and Climate Unit at CINEA, showed examples of successful LIFE projects which drive innovation in carbon-neutral cities and green energy.

Rhein also took the opportunity to promote LIFE funding opportunities to support green mobility, energy efficiency and emission reduction in urban areas - a timely intervention since the 2025 LIFE Call for Proposals is open for applications until 23 September 2025. The call covers a wide range of projects across nature conservation, circular economy and quality of life, climate action and the clean energy transition.

LIFE is especially interested in supporting projects which can be replicated and scaled up elsewhere, particularly those demonstrating practical innovation, measurable impact and best practices. You can also take inspiration from thousands of successful past and present initiatives across Europe listed in the LIFE project database, take a look at what LIFE is up to in your country or get expert help from your LIFE National Contact Point (NCP).

Whether you are a private business, a public organisation or an NGO, the LIFE Programme can help turn your ideas into action. Explore eligibility, funding strands, and how to apply via the EU LIFE website.