Blue Parks - Towards a coherent European network of strictly protected areas for restoring healthy and productive marine ecosystems

This program targets a diverse range of organizations and entities within EU Member States and Associated Countries, focusing on collaborative research and innovation efforts to protect and restore marine environments. The overarching goal is to significantly contribute to the EU's biodiversity and climate objectives by establishing a robust network of marine protected areas.

The Blue Parks program funds research and innovation actions that provide a scientific foundation for designating and implementing marine strictly protected areas. Supported activities span data compilation, ecological needs assessment, network determination, and compatibility analysis with other marine activities.

The Blue Parks program provides grant funding to support research and innovation actions. The maximum funding per project under this topic is 5 million euros.

Applicants must adhere to general conditions concerning proposal submission, eligibility criteria for countries, and financial and operational capacity. Specific conditions are detailed within the Horizon Europe Work Programme and its General Annexes.

The application process involves an electronic submission system, with specific forms and evaluation criteria outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Evaluation includes defined award criteria, scoring, thresholds, and a clear timeline.

The Blue Parks program operates under the comprehensive legal framework of Horizon Europe, ensuring alignment with broader EU policies and regulations concerning research, innovation, environmental protection, and financial management.