In early September, a networking meeting was held between the LIFE IP CLIMAZ, LIFE IP AZORES NATURA and University of Eastern Finland projects, to promote the sharing of experiences, discuss funding strategies and explore the challenges and opportunities associated with preparing an Integrated LIFE project proposal.

During the meeting, the first two integrated projects underway in the Azores were presented, highlighting the Region’s relevance in the national context, as the three existing LIFE IP projects in Portugal are based in the Azores archipelago. The LIFE IP CLIMAZ project was shared as an example of the implementation of the Regional Plan for Climate Change (PRAC), highlighting the challenges of selecting partners in terms of funding requirements and the implementation of measures aligned with the PRAC. LIFE IP AZORES NATURA contributed with its experience in managing conservation actions, as well as in the process of preparing applications and selecting partners.

The meeting highlighted the importance of networking as an essential space for knowledge exchange and for identifying synergies between LIFE projects in areas such as combating climate change, conserving biodiversity and promoting innovative and collaborative solutions.

The University of Eastern Finland, currently preparing a strategic LIFE project on climate, benefited from direct contact with the experience of Azorean projects, enabling it to align good practices and strengthen international cooperation.

The networking activities of the LIFE IP CLIMAZ and LIFE IP AZORES NATURA projects continue to be a key component in fostering collaboration, sharing experiences and developing partnerships that reinforce the collective impact of LIFE projects in responding to environmental and climate challenges.