Biodiversity proofing of EU Cohesion Policy funds with a view to sustainable development

The guidance document entitled “Biodiversity proofing of EU Cohesion Policy funds with a view to sustainable development” aims to lay down the principles and develop a proposal for biodiversity proofing criteria in EU Funds. The document presents principles, project selection criteria and other tools that shall be integrated into the implementation cycle in order to maximise biodiversity benefits and reduce negative biodiversity impacts of the use of Cohesion Policy funds. In addition, it also includes specific guidance for NGOs on how to get involved in the task of biodiversity proofing throughout the programming and implementation cycles. Thus, decision-makers and environmental NGOs, as well as other partners and project promoters, can use this guide to assist in the development of programme supplementary documents, project development, project appraisal, and monitoring.