European court of Auditors. Special report 25/2025: LIFE strategic projects. Bridge the gap between strategy and implementation, but impact not entirely clear

The LIFE programme was set up to address various environmental and climate challenges facing the EU, including air and water pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change. LIFE strategic projects support member states in implementing strategies to face up to these challenges. Our audit assessed whether these projects were designed to meet their objectives, and how this happened in practice. We found that LIFE strategic projects encourage cooperation and attract extra funding, but that there are shortcomings in prioritising needs, monitoring and sharing results. Furthermore, the impact and sustainability of project outcomes are often unclear. We recommend clearer criteria for choosing projects, better guidance, more sharing of good practices, and stronger plans to ensure results last beyond the funding period.