Front-runner projects identified under Horizon 2020 depollution initiative

Five front-runner projects have been identified, aimed at significantly contributing to the reduction of pollution in the Mediterranean under the Horizon 2020 programme. One year after its launch, the first results of the Horizon 2020 Mediterranean Hot Spot Investment Programme – Project Preparation and Implementation Facility (MeHSIP-PPIF) are coming through, with the identification of the projects recommended for a first wave of implementation. The five projects represent a total estimated value of €235 million. They are:

• Netanya Landfill, Israel
• El Ekaider Dump Site, Jordan
• Al Ghadir Waste Water Treatment Plant, Lebanon
• Solid Waste Management, Tangier, Morocco
• Integrated De pollution Bizerte, Tunisia

 Following the completion of the review of these projects, the European Investment Bank (EIB) will assess supporting the projects with long term financing if country commitment is strong. MeHSIP-PPIF is designed to help reinvigorate the Horizon 2020 de-pollution initiative in the Mediterranean partner countries, by supporting the identification and development of projects that will contribute significantly to reducing pollution in the region. It facilitates access to regional and sectoral funds available for such projects. De-pollution projects that may be eligible for support from potential funding agencies in this region are in urban wastewater, solid waste management and industrial emissions (air quality and water quality) sectors. 

The Horizon 2020 initiative aims to improve the quality of life of more than 420 million citizens living in the 25 countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is an umbrella programme drawing together all the policies, strategies and action plans for enhancing environmental protection. Horizon 2020 has mechanisms in capacity-building, research, monitoring and review that place the initiative in an excellent position to address the challenges it faces and ensure the efficient and effective use of the available resources. The inclusion of the Horizon 2020 Initiative as one of the six components of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) adds to the political impetus to address major environmental challenges.