Improving capabilities of law enforcement to counter climate-related challenges

Overview

Funding for research and innovation projects that enhance law enforcement capabilities to address climate-related criminal activities, including environmental crimes, wildlife trafficking, and exploitation linked to resource scarcity. Targets consortia involving police authorities, security practitioners, and interdisciplinary teams to develop specialized skills, technologies, and policy recommendations.

Who Can Apply

Consortia comprising at least two police authorities from different EU Member States or Associated Countries, alongside other eligible entities such as research institutions, public bodies, and private organizations. Active involvement of security practitioners (e.g., border guard or customs authorities) is encouraged where relevant.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant amount: €6,000,000
• Funding rate: Not specified (lump-sum contributions)
• Co-funding: Not explicitly required but may apply under Horizon Europe rules

What Is Funded

Projects addressing:

• Climate change-driven criminal activities (e.g., illegal mining, wildlife trafficking, carbon credit fraud, disaster exploitation)
• Development of specialized law enforcement skills, technologies (including forensics), and training
• Policy recommendations for European law enforcement and policymakers
• Social dynamics and vulnerabilities exacerbated by climate change (e.g., migration, radicalization)
• Balanced integration of technological and societal approaches
• Mandatory engagement with Europol Innovation Lab and cooperation with CEPOL for training-related aspects

Technology / Maturity Requirements

• Target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): 4 to 6

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-05-05
• Deadline: 2026-11-04

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Horizon Europe Submission System. Proposals must include a table detailing security practitioner involvement and adhere to page limits outlined in the application form.

Post-Award Obligations

• Coordination with other funded projects to avoid duplication and maximize impact
• Engagement with Europol Innovation Lab for validation of outcomes
• Cooperation with CEPOL for training-related aspects (if applicable)
• Compliance with Horizon Europe reporting and dissemination requirements
• Potential restrictions on ownership transfers or exclusive licensing of results for up to four years post-project

Geographic Scope & Language

• Eligible countries: EU Member States, Associated Countries (Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland), and select non-EU/non-associated countries with specific funding provisions
• Application language: English

Notes

• Proposals must include Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) expertise and consider gender-specific dimensions where relevant.
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data is mandatory if satellite-based services are employed.
• Consortia must demonstrate interdisciplinary collaboration and a clear pathway to policy or operational impact.