The European Commission is proposing to increase funding by almost 60% for environment and climate action projects.

They are supported under the LIFE programme, which has financed more than 4,500 projects and contributed €5.9 billion (£5bn) to environmental protection so far.

It aims to increase focus on clean energy, nature and biodiversity as well as continue support for the circular economy and climate change mitigation.

For the next EU budget between 2021 and 2027, the Commission is proposing €1.95 billion (£1.7bn) of support.

Miguel Arias Cañete, Climate Action and Energy Commissioner said: “A stronger LIFE programme will play an important role in expanding investments in climate action and clean energy across Europe. By continuing to support climate change mitigation and adaptation, LIFE will also continue to help the EU deliver on its climate goals and commitments under the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”