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Strategic Analysis
This Innovation Action targets the critical challenge of conflict-induced ecosystem contamination in Ukraine, demanding a robust, multi-faceted approach. Winning proposals will strategically combine advanced assessment technologies, innovative bioremediation solutions (especially Nature-based Solutions), and a strong focus on practical demonstration and scalability, ensuring direct benefits for affected communities and alignment with Ukraine's reconstruction and EU accession goals.
TRL 6 → 8
assess the level of contamination of soils in Ukraine due to past and ongoing conflicts and select the areas to be remediated within the actions funded. Include improving/adapting testing techniques, applying Earth observations and advanced tools (e.g., AI and autonomous systems) when applicable, aiming at the prioritisation and monitoring of the areas in the scope of remediation activities;
develop and test innovative cost-effective biotechnology and Nature-based Solutions - including phytoremediation - for decontamination and bioremediation of soil pollution on the land and at source (including air and/or water bodies) in the conditions of contamination due to conflicts;
demonstrate the developed techniques in Ukraine in the areas selected at the first point and monitor the effectiveness of the activities in scope, including increased resilience of the remediated ecosystems to climate change;
evaluate potential (positive and negative) impacts on the population, especially on groups in vulnerable situations, and ensure transparent engagement with and information to stakeholders and civil society on solutions proposed;
collect and provide recommendations to policymakers and EU and international relief organisations, to develop any replication actions, including in the context of the possible EU accession process, if relevant;
deliver on EU international commitments and outreach, including actions directed at future EU enlargement and EU international partnerships contributing to the EU global commitments on biodiversity and climate change.
innovative biotechnology and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) [1] are developed and made available to communities, land managers, local administrators and policy makers in Ukraine to progress towards the targets of biodiversity protection and the clean environment and zero-pollution ambition;
contribution to the reconstruction, recovery, circularity and upgrading of economy and environment of Ukraine is provided through the remediation of severe ecosystems pollution - due to conflicts - and restoration of ecosystem services.
Advancing scientific understanding and innovative solutions for identifying, preventing and mitigating pollution aim to effectively protect human health and safeguard the environment, preserving cleaner water and seas, healthier air and soil, and resilient forests.
Innovative circular bio-based systems and biotechnologies are developed and made available to all stakeholders to progress towards the clean environment and zero-pollution ambition.
Farmers and other actors in the food chain are empowered to make informed decisions and to apply novel strategies to prevent, reduce and remediate pollution from agriculture and the food system, contributing to the zero-pollution ambition.
Effective solutions to remediate and decontaminate aquatic pollution are developed, made available and implemented contributing to reducing pollution to levels no longer considered harmful to the environment.
EU water legislation
highEU water legislation comprises a comprehensive set of directives, notably the Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC), the Groundwater Directive (2006/118/EC), the Environmental Quality Standards Directive (2008/105/EC), and the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). These aim to protect and restore all waters, prevent pollution, ensure good quantitative and qualitative status, and promote sustainable water use across the EU.
Proposals must demonstrate a clear understanding of the objectives of EU water legislation, particularly regarding achieving good ecological and chemical status for surface waters and good quantitative and chemical status for groundwater. Bioremediation solutions should contribute to reducing water pollution, restoring aquatic ecosystems, and ensuring sustainable water management in conflict-affected areas. Projects should consider monitoring parameters and targets aligned with these directives.
European Water Resilience Strategy
highStrategic Dialogue on EU Agriculture
highThe Strategic Dialogue on EU Agriculture, launched by the European Commission, aims to foster a broad discussion on the future of farming in the EU. It brings together farmers, agri-food businesses, NGOs, and experts to address challenges such as climate change, environmental sustainability, food security, and fair income for farmers, seeking to shape a long-term vision for a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.
Proposals should demonstrate how their bioremediation solutions can support sustainable agricultural practices in conflict-affected areas, particularly in restoring contaminated agricultural land. This could involve methods that enable the safe return of land to food production, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to the long-term resilience and sustainability of the agricultural sector in Ukraine, aligning with the broader goals of the dialogue.
Vision for EU Agriculture and Food
highThe "Vision for EU Agriculture and Food" refers to the long-term strategic direction for the sector, often articulated through initiatives like the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). It aims for a fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food system, promoting sustainable farming practices, food security, biodiversity protection, and rural vitality, while ensuring economic viability for farmers.
Proposals should illustrate how their bioremediation efforts contribute to the long-term vision for sustainable agriculture and food systems, especially in the context of restoring land for food production in Ukraine. This includes demonstrating benefits for soil health, biodiversity, food safety, and the overall resilience of the agri-food chain, aligning with the principles of ecological transition and sustainable resource management.
EU Nature Restoration Regulation
highMandates restoration of degraded ecosystems. Relevant if the proposal includes nature-based solutions or biodiversity offsets.
If applicable, integration of nature restoration measures in urban/peri-urban areas.
EU bioeconomy strategy
highEuropean Chemicals Industry Action Plan
mediumAmbient Air Quality Directive
mediumThe Ambient Air Quality Directives (2008/50/EC and 2004/107/EC) set legally binding limits for key air pollutants to protect human health and the environment. They require Member States to monitor air quality, assess compliance, and develop air quality plans to achieve these limits. The directives are currently under revision to align with stricter WHO guidelines.
Proposals should demonstrate how their bioremediation solutions contribute to improving air quality, particularly if the contamination involves volatile organic compounds or other airborne pollutants. This could include reducing emissions from contaminated sites or preventing the release of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Projects should consider monitoring and assessment methodologies aligned with the directive's requirements.
Industrial and Livestock Rearing Emissions Directive
mediumThe Industrial Emissions Directive (IED, 2010/75/EU) is the main EU instrument regulating pollutant emissions from industrial installations and large livestock farms. It aims to prevent and control pollution by requiring installations to operate with permits based on Best Available Techniques (BAT) to achieve a high level of environmental protection. It covers emissions to air, water, and soil, as well as waste generation.
If the bioremediation targets contamination originating from industrial sites or large livestock rearing facilities affected by the conflict, proposals should demonstrate an understanding of the IED's principles. This could involve showing how remediation efforts align with BAT concepts for pollution control, or how they address legacy contamination from such sources to prevent future emissions. Consideration of integrated pollution prevention and control is key.
Marine Strategy Framework Directive
mediumThe Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD, 2008/56/EC) aims to achieve Good Environmental Status (GES) of the EU's marine waters by 2020 and maintain it thereafter. It requires Member States to develop strategies to protect and restore marine ecosystems, prevent their degradation, and ensure the sustainable use of marine goods and services. It covers various descriptors of marine environmental status, including biodiversity, contaminants, and marine litter.
If the bioremediation efforts extend to coastal or marine ecosystems affected by conflict-related contamination (e.g., Black Sea coast of Ukraine), proposals should demonstrate how they contribute to achieving or maintaining Good Environmental Status as defined by the MSFD. This includes addressing specific contaminants, restoring marine habitats, and considering the broader impact on marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Strategy for European Life Sciences
mediumThe Strategy for European Life Sciences aims to strengthen Europe’s leadership in life sciences research, innovation, and industrial competitiveness. It focuses on areas such as biotechnology, personalized medicine, and digital health, while addressing challenges like regulatory complexity and market fragmentation. The strategy supports the translation of research into tangible health benefits for citizens.
Evaluators expect proposals to demonstrate how they contribute to the strategy’s goals, such as advancing innovative solutions to reduce low-value care (e.g., precision medicine, digital diagnostics). Proposals should highlight their potential to drive industrial competitiveness, improve patient outcomes, and address regulatory or market barriers. Collaboration with industry, research institutions, and policymakers is encouraged.
EU Biotech Act
mediumThe "EU Biotech Act" refers to proposed legislative initiatives aimed at streamlining and supporting the biotechnology sector in the EU, often discussed in the context of the Communication on Boosting Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing. It seeks to create a more predictable and innovation-friendly regulatory environment for biotechnological products and processes, including those in agriculture and food.
Proposals should demonstrate an awareness of the regulatory landscape for biotechnological products, particularly if the feed additives involve novel biotechnological processes or genetically modified organisms. Evaluators will look for projects that consider future regulatory pathways and contribute to the EU's strategic autonomy in biotechnology.
EU Clean Industrial Deal
lowEU strategy for outermost regions
low1. Admissibility conditions — Proposal page limit and layout described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Proposal page limits and layout: described in Part B of the Application Form available in the Submission System.
2. Eligible Countries — described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes. A number of non-EU/non-Associated Countries that are not automatically eligible for funding have made specific provisions for making funding available for their participants in Horizon Europe projects. See the information in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide .
3. Other Eligibility Conditions — In line with the “ restriction on control in innovation actions in critical technology areas ” delineated in General Annex B of the General Annexes, entities established in an eligible country but which are directly or indirectly controlled by China or by a legal entity established in China are not eligible to participate in the action. If projects use satellite-based earth observation, positioning, navigation and/or related timing data and services, beneficiaries must make use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS (other data and services may additionally be used). described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes.
4. Financial and operational capacity and exclusion — described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes.
5a. Evaluation and award: Award criteria, scoring and thresholds — are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes.
5b. Evaluation and award: Submission and evaluation processes — are described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes and the Online Manual .
5c. Evaluation and award: Indicative timeline for evaluation and grant agreement — described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes.
6. Legal and financial set-up of the grants — Eligible costs will take the form of a lump sum as defined in the Decision of 7 July 2021 authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme – the Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (2021-2027) – and in actions under the Research and Training Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (2021-2025) [[This decision is available on the Funding and Tenders Portal, in the reference documents section for Horizon Europe, under ‘Simplified costs decisions’ or through this link: https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/horizon/guidance/ls-decision_he_en.pdf ]]. described in Annex G of the Work Programme General Annexes.
described in the [specific topic of the Work Programme]
Application form templates — the application form specific to this call is available in the Submission System Standard application form (HE RIA, IA) Evaluation form templates — will be used with the necessary adaptations Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA) Guidance HE Programme Guide Model Grant Agreements (MGA) Lump Sum MGA Call-specific instructions Detailed budget table (HE LS) Guidance: "Lump sums - what do I need to know?"
HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 1. General Introduction HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 9. Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment HE Main Work Programme 2026-2027 – 15. General Annexes HE Programme Guide HE Framework Programme 2021/695 HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764 EU Financial Regulation 2024/2509 Decision authorising the use of lump sum contributions under the Horizon Europe Programme Rules for Legal Entity Validation, LEAR Appointment and Financial Capacity Assessment EU Grants AGA — Annotated Model Grant Agreement Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual Funding & Tenders Portal Terms and Conditions Funding & Tenders Portal Privacy Statement
Evaluators will prioritize proposals that demonstrate a clear understanding of the unique context of conflict-affected areas in Ukraine, offering highly innovative, cost-effective, and scalable bioremediation technologies, particularly Nature-based Solutions. A strong emphasis on rigorous on-site demonstration, effective monitoring of environmental and climate resilience benefits, and transparent engagement with local populations (especially vulnerable groups) is crucial. Furthermore, the project's contribution to policy recommendations for replication and its alignment with EU international commitments and Ukraine's potential EU accession will be key differentiators.
Everything the call asks for, seen from the call's point of view. Each line shows what answers it, and which partner carries it.
This matrix lists everything the call asks for: outcomes, impacts, scope, the requirements buried in the call text, and policy alignment. Sign up free and GrantForge tracks each line against the concept you build.
| Requirement | Covered by | Carried | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope activities | |||
| SC1assess the level of contamination of soils in Ukraine due to past and ongoing conflicts and select the areas to be remediated within the actions funded. Include improving/adapting testing techniques, applying Earth observations and advanced tools (e.g., AI and autonomous systems) when applicable, aiming at the prioritisation and monitoring of the areas in the scope of remediation activities; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC2develop and test innovative cost-effective biotechnology and Nature-based Solutions - including phytoremediation - for decontamination and bioremediation of soil pollution on the land and at source (including air and/or water bodies) in the conditions of contamination due to conflicts; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC3demonstrate the developed techniques in Ukraine in the areas selected at the first point and monitor the effectiveness of the activities in scope, including increased resilience of the remediated ecosystems to climate change; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC4evaluate potential (positive and negative) impacts on the population, especially on groups in vulnerable situations, and ensure transparent engagement with and information to stakeholders and civil society on solutions proposed; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC5collect and provide recommendations to policymakers and EU and international relief organisations, to develop any replication actions, including in the context of the possible EU accession process, if relevant; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| SC6deliver on EU international commitments and outreach, including actions directed at future EU enlargement and EU international partnerships contributing to the EU global commitments on biodiversity and climate change. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Expected outcomes | |||
| EO1innovative biotechnology and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) [1] are developed and made available to communities, land managers, local administrators and policy makers in Ukraine to progress towards the targets of biodiversity protection and the clean environment and zero-pollution ambition; | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EO2contribution to the reconstruction, recovery, circularity and upgrading of economy and environment of Ukraine is provided through the remediation of severe ecosystems pollution - due to conflicts - and restoration of ecosystem services. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Other requirements | |||
| No other requirements in this call. | |||
| Expected impacts | |||
| EI1Advancing scientific understanding and innovative solutions for identifying, preventing and mitigating pollution aim to effectively protect human health and safeguard the environment, preserving cleaner water and seas, healthier air and soil, and resilient forests. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI2Innovative circular bio-based systems and biotechnologies are developed and made available to all stakeholders to progress towards the clean environment and zero-pollution ambition. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI3Farmers and other actors in the food chain are empowered to make informed decisions and to apply novel strategies to prevent, reduce and remediate pollution from agriculture and the food system, contributing to the zero-pollution ambition. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| EI4Effective solutions to remediate and decontaminate aquatic pollution are developed, made available and implemented contributing to reducing pollution to levels no longer considered harmful to the environment. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| Underlying policies | |||
| POL1eu water legislationEU water legislation comprises a comprehensive set of directives, notably the Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC), the Groundwater Directive (2006/118/EC), the Environmental Quality Standards Directive (2008/105/EC), and the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (91/271/EEC). These aim to protect and restore all waters, prevent pollution, ensure good quantitative and qualitative status, and promote sustainable water use across the EU. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL2european water resilience strategyThe Strategy aims to improve water resilience, including through ecosystem restoration and pollution reduction. The project could address freshwater species decline and propose solutions for water quality and quantity. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL3strategic dialogue on eu agricultureThe Strategic Dialogue on EU Agriculture, launched by the European Commission, aims to foster a broad discussion on the future of farming in the EU. It brings together farmers, agri-food businesses, NGOs, and experts to address challenges such as climate change, environmental sustainability, food security, and fair income for farmers, seeking to shape a long-term vision for a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL4vision for eu agriculture and foodThe "Vision for EU Agriculture and Food" refers to the long-term strategic direction for the sector, often articulated through initiatives like the Farm to Fork Strategy and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). It aims for a fair, healthy, and environmentally friendly food system, promoting sustainable farming practices, food security, biodiversity protection, and rural vitality, while ensuring economic viability for farmers. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL5eu nature restoration regulationMandates restoration of degraded ecosystems. Relevant if the proposal includes nature-based solutions or biodiversity offsets. | · | · | Sign up to track |
| POL6eu bioeconomy strategyPromotes sustainable use of biological resources. Relevant for proposals involving bio-based materials or circular bioeconomy models in urban manufacturing. | · | · | Sign up to track |
The binding rules of this call. Items marked auto are verified by GrantForge from the call and the template. The others are yours to confirm.
LMIC entities auto-eligible
Low/middle-income country entities are automatically eligible for funding.
EU space data infrastructures
If the project uses satellite-based Earth observation, positioning, navigation or timing data/services, beneficiaries must use Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS. Other sources may be added but not substitute EU infrastructures.
Civil applications only
Horizon Europe funds exclusively civil applications. Research with exclusive military or dual-use application is excluded.
Gender Equality Plan
Having a Gender Equality Plan (GEP) is an eligibility criterion for public bodies, research organisations, and higher education institutions from Member States and Associated Countries.
Open Science
Mandatory open access to peer-reviewed scientific publications and responsible management of research data (FAIR principles, DMP required).
Talk to the Grant Coach to build your concept. The steps below fill in as it takes shape, and your coverage tracks the progress. You can refine everything once your project workspace is created.
Step 1 of 2 · Build your concept
The problems this call frames, and who they affect. Your concept and plan address them.
Past and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine have led to severe contamination of soils, water, and air, posing significant risks to human health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services, hindering recovery and reconstruction efforts.
Existing remediation techniques are often not tailored to the complex and diverse contamination profiles resulting from conflicts, lacking cost-effectiveness, scalability, and integration of Nature-based Solutions for widespread application in Ukraine.
There is a need for robust policy recommendations, transparent stakeholder engagement, and capacity building to ensure the long-term sustainability and replicability of remediation efforts, supporting Ukraine's environmental recovery and potential EU accession.
Local populations directly impacted by ecosystem contamination due to conflicts, including vulnerable groups, who will benefit from remediated environments and transparent engagement.
Individuals and authorities responsible for land management and local governance in Ukraine, who will utilize the developed bioremediation techniques and receive recommendations for implementation.
Government bodies in Ukraine and international organisations involved in reconstruction and relief efforts, who will receive policy recommendations and insights for replication actions and future development.
Researchers and scientists globally working on environmental remediation, conflict-induced pollution, and Nature-based Solutions, who will benefit from new knowledge, methodologies, and demonstrated best practices.
Agricultural stakeholders whose land may be contaminated or who can benefit from new strategies to prevent, reduce, and remediate pollution, contributing to sustainable food systems.
Step 2 of 2 · Build your concept
The long-term impacts your project should drive — this shapes the objectives next.
The project will significantly advance scientific understanding and provide innovative solutions to identify, prevent, and mitigate pollution, leading to cleaner water, healthier air and soil, and more resilient ecosystems, thereby protecting human health.
The project will develop and make available cutting-edge circular bio-based systems and biotechnologies, including Nature-based Solutions, to various stakeholders, driving progress towards a clean environment and the zero-pollution ambition.
Farmers and other actors in the food chain will be empowered with informed decisions and novel strategies to prevent, reduce, and remediate pollution originating from agriculture and the food system, contributing directly to the zero-pollution ambition.
The project will develop, make available, and implement effective solutions to remediate and decontaminate aquatic pollution, ensuring that pollution levels are no longer considered harmful to the environment and supporting aquatic biodiversity.
Through the remediation of severe ecosystem pollution and restoration of ecosystem services, the project will provide a significant contribution to the reconstruction, recovery, circularity, and upgrading of Ukraine's economy and environment, aligning with future EU enlargement and international partnerships.