When you begin writing your proposal, keep the following principles in mind:

• Explain your environmental project in plain, well-understandable language, especially when describing the problem it addresses, the solution and the expected impact of its activities. Aim for clear, concise language that communicates what you want to do, why it matters and what you hope to achieve.
  
  
• Make sure there is a clear link between your problem statement, objectives, activities and results. Example: If your project addresses marine pollution, start by describing the problem (e.g. high levels of plastic waste on coastal areas), address the problem with specific objectives (e.g. reduce coastal plastic waste by 30%), outline concrete activities (e.g. new technology or methods to address the problem) and explain the expected results (e.g. cleaner habitats, increased community engagement).
  
  
• Highlight how your project contributes to the EU’s environmental and climate objectives, such as the Green Deal, Circular Economy Action Plan or Biodiversity Strategy. What is expected of you here is to explain how your results can be transferred, scaled or replicated in other regions or sectors. This shows the wider relevance of your project beyond the immediate context and adds to its strategic value at the EU level. Example: Development of toolkits or policy recommendations that can be adopted elsewhere too.
  
  
• Technical soundness: Provide evidence, data and a realistic implementation plan. This can include results from previous pilot projects, scientific studies, environmental impact assessments, stakeholder consultations, or relevant baseline data collected at the local, regional or national level.
  
  
• Key performance indicators (KPIs): Clearly define how success will be measured, using specific, measurable and realistic indicators that align with your project goals and expected impact. Examples: A project aiming to improve biodiversity might use KPIs such as the number of native plant species reintroduced, square meters of green space created, or community members engaged in local activities.
  
  
• Sustainability: Demonstrate how your project’s outcomes will be sustained beyond the funding period. This could include integration into local, regional or national policies, long-term financing commitments and partnerships that continue beyond the project’s end. Showing that your impact will last after the project has been completed is a key requirement and will be assessed during the project evaluation process.