EC launches €35 million call for projects that turn environmental challenges into business opportunities

The European Commission today launched a EUR 35 million call for eco-innovation. Funds are available for new projects in the area of materials recycling, sustainable building products, the food and drink sector and green business practices. Applications are particularly welcome from small businesses with green products or services that need backing to penetrate markets.

Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for the Environment said: "This call for innovative projects is a tremendous opportunity for Europe's entrepreneurial talent to showcase new ideas to reduce our ecological footprint. The CIP Eco-Innovation programme shows that helping the environment makes good business sense, with numerous products and services now demonstrating how competitive growth and environmental protection can go hand in hand."

The call covers four main areas:

• Material recycling

• Sustainable building products

• Food and drink sector

• Green business