European natural lakes: demonstration of integrated approaches for protection and restoration of natural lake ecosystems and their biodiversity

The EUROLakes Replication Call of the European Commission supports local and regional authorities in EU Member States and Horizon Europe-associated countries in replicating proven nature-based solutions for the protection and restoration of natural lake ecosystems. With a lump sum funding of €75,000 (100% funding rate) per project, a total of three regions will be selected to implement small-scale ecological restoration measures. Participants benefit from knowledge exchange, training, and the joint development of tailored replication plans within the framework of the EUROLakes methodology, which has been tested in demonstration sites in Italy, Germany, and Romania. The goal is to improve the ecological and chemical water quality as well as to increase biodiversity in line with the EU Water Framework Directive, the Green Deal, and the mission "Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030."

Eligible to participate are public institutions such as municipalities, conservation authorities, and regional governments that manage, protect, or restore natural lakes. A comparable ecological context to the EUROLakes demonstration sites, no prior funding under the same Horizon Europe topic, and responsibility for the management of lakes and their catchment areas are prerequisites. Evaluation criteria include relevance, impact, quality, and implementation capacity. Applications will be accepted until January 15, 2026, 5:00 PM CET, with project start possible from October 16, 2025. Interested authorities can prepare comprehensively using the Call Guidelines and application form and thus contribute to the sustainable revival of natural lakes in Europe.