EC earmarks EURO 23 million for Asian sustainable projects

The European Commission (EC) said last week it was seeking proposals under the new SWITCH-Asia programme which will focus on the promotion of sustainable production and consumption patterns and behaviours in the Asian region.

The main applicants of this programme are expected to be, intermediary business organisations and networks (eg. Chambers of commerce, Industry associations), (Not for profit) organisations aiming at pursuing sustainable development, and government institutions, both at the central and local level. All projects require a partnership of a minimum one organisation from a member state of the EC and at least one organisation from an eligible Asian country (Sri Lanka included).

The overall indicative amount made available under this call for proposals is EURO 23,000,000 million (Rs 3.7 billion) but since the programme targets the Asian region a balanced coverage of the Asian countries will be given.

An EC statement said the SWITCH-Asia programme aims to promote economic prosperity and poverty reduction in Asian countries through sustainable growth with reduced environmental impact by industries and consumers, in line with international environmental agreements and processes.

The programme has been classified into two main components, and the minimum and maximum size of grant and duration of projects vary according to the component.