The EPA is at the front line of environmental protection and policing. As part of its wide range of functions the EPA manages an environmental research programme that delivers essential scientific support for environmental policy development, implementation and broader decision making. Since 1994, the EPA has funded research that has increased national understanding of our environment, the challenges it faces and responses to these. EPA Research focuses on achieving environmental objectives, informing policy and bringing together researchers and research users. The EPA is responsible for coordinating environmental research in Ireland.
The EPA Research Programme is a Government of Ireland initiative funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
Putting Science and Innovation at the centre of environmental protection in Ireland through the development and proactive transfer of knowledge.
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EPA Research 2030 is a ten-year high-level framework for the EPA's research programming (2021-2030), designed to be agile, responsive and flexible.
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Learn more about national environmental research coordination
Learn more about international research collaboration and transnational research funding opportunities
The FAQ's list here provides an answer to popular questions we are asked.
Popular FAQ's
Can researchers from outside Ireland apply?
A core principle of the funding provided under the EPA Research Programme is that it promotes the development of research capacity on the island of Ireland. Therefore, applications for funding will only be considered where the lead applicant organisation is located on the island of Ireland.
Whilst co-applicant organisations located in other jurisdictions may participate in projects funded by the EPA Research Programme (as Co-applicants), they are restricted in terms of the categories of expenditure considered eligible for funding. Further details are provided in the EPA Research Programme 2021-2030 Guidelines and Terms & Conditions
Can project partners be added to Green Enterprise proposals?
The financial rules of the Green Enterprise Programme do not allow partner organisations to participate. However, where an applicant requires expertise not available within their own organisation, they can use the resources of an external provider by way of external assistance. Any external assistance arrangement must be mindful of public procurement obligations.
Can I submit or participate in a proposal for a call topic which my organisation is co-funding?
No. Researchers may not apply for or participate in projects which are to be co-funded by their organisation, even if their organisation would not be in receipt of funding.
Can a Lead Applicant be the lead on more than one live project?
Yes
Why are Green Enterprise grant awards subject to De Minimis State Aid rules
The Green Enterprise Programme provides funding of up to €100,000 to undertakings through state resources which provides an advantage to those undertakings and has the potential to distort competition. The scheme does not fall within the scope of the Global Block Exemption Regulation. Therefore the scheme is administered under De Minimis.
