The third Net4LIFE Twinning event took place in Slovenia on 21–22 May, bringing together LIFE National Contact Points (NCPs) from across Europe. The event provided a valuable platform for exchanging knowledge, strengthening cooperation, and exploring best practices in the implementation of LIFE projects.
The programme focused on improving the quality of project proposals, enhancing support for Integrated Projects (IPs), fostering innovation, and showcasing Slovenia’s successful examples in nature protection, biodiversity conservation, and the circular economy.
The Twinning event was jointly organised by the Ministry of the Environment, Climate and Energy and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Spatial Planning, the two institutions serving as LIFE NCPs in Slovenia. Both organisations are also partners in the implementation of LIFE Capacity Building Project 2, which was presented during the event.
Representatives from Lithuania and Poland shared their national approaches to implementing the LIFE Programme, highlighting their support structures, outreach strategies, and capacity-building initiatives designed to assist applicants.
Finland presented its strategic framework for the preparation, development, and successful management of LIFE Integrated Projects, demonstrating key factors behind the effective delivery of large-scale initiatives.
The discussions concluded with a presentation by Italy on ongoing negotiations regarding the future of the LIFE Programme beyond 2027. The presentation emphasised that LIFE remains the EU’s only funding instrument fully dedicated to environment, nature, biodiversity, climate action, and the clean energy transition. Italy strongly advocated maintaining LIFE as a standalone programme, noting that despite representing only a small share of the EU budget, it delivers substantial environmental and climate benefits.
A key takeaway from the event was the continued importance of a dedicated LIFE Programme to support environmental innovation, nature conservation, climate action, and the effective implementation of EU environmental legislation.
The second day of the Twinning took participants to Cerknica Lake, one of Slovenia’s most distinctive natural ecosystems. Through guided field activities, including kayaking, cycling, or walking, depending on water conditions, participants experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities related to biodiversity conservation, climate variability, and ecosystem management. The visit highlighted the tangible added value of LIFE projects in protecting natural habitats and strengthening climate resilience.
The programme concluded at Notranjska Regional Park, where participants learned about LIFE-funded projects focusing on wetland restoration, biodiversity conservation, habitat management, invasive species control, and community engagement. The park, located in Cerknica, is among Slovenia’s most active protected area managers within the LIFE Programme and has played a key role in advancing conservation efforts through multiple LIFE initiatives.
