When talking about aid to biodiversity In Spain, many people only think of grants for ecological projects. However, behind these grants lies a whole administrative, financial, and regulatory structure involving ministries, European funds, foundations, and specific programs that determine what is funded, who can apply, and how the entire process is monitored.
In parallel, any institutional website that manages these calls for aid It often relies on digital tools (such as cookies and analytics systems) to improve the service, track visits, and ensure the portal functions correctly. This explains why, when we search for information on biodiversity grants, we also encounter legal texts on data protection, cookie policies, and very specific documentation requirements.
What is meant by biodiversity aid and its main objectives
The calls aid for the maintenance and improvement of biodiversity These are public subsidies that seek to finance projects and actions that have a direct and demonstrable impact on the conservation of habitats and species, especially those integrated into the Natura 2000 or classified as having high natural value. This aid is part of rural development, agricultural and forestry policy, and Spain's commitments to the European Union regarding conservation.
In the specific case of Castilla-La Mancha, Order 97/2023, of May 5, from the Ministry of Sustainable Development, regulates aid aimed at non-productive actions in the forestry sectorThese actions, included in sub-measure 4.4 of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020, are linked to Regulation (EU) No 1305/2013 on support for rural development through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). The objective of these actions is not to directly generate economic benefits, but to promote nature conservation.
Among the specific aims pursued by these grants, the following stand out: restore, preserve and improve The biodiversity of habitats and species included in the Natura 2000 network, as well as protecting the natural ecosystems that comprise it. This includes actions concerning wild flora and fauna and landscape elements that are key to maintaining ecological connectivity.
Another set of objectives focuses on the strengthening coherence and connectivity This ecological network involves managing elements such as rivers and riverbanks, traditional boundary systems (stone walls, hedges, rural enclosures), ponds, groves, and other connecting points that facilitate migration, geographic distribution, and genetic exchange of wild species. The aim is to maintain a functional territory where wildlife movements and ecosystem dynamics are not disrupted by infrastructure or changes in land use.
In addition, the aid includes support for studies for the declaration of new natural areasincluding areas that may eventually be recognized through international agreements. In this context, Natura 2000 sites can act as core areas, buffer zones, or priority areas for such future designation.
Actions are also planned for the identification, quantification, compensation and commercialization of ecosystem servicesThis includes, for example, economically valuing services such as pollination, water regulation or carbon capture and developing management and conservation measures that allow their maintenance and enhancement, especially in places listed in Annex I or with species from Annex II of Directive 92/43/EEC (Habitats Directive) or species from Annex I of Directive 2009/147/EC (Birds Directive). The enhancement and certification of ecological practices It can be key to the commercialization of those ecosystem services.
The biodiversity aid regulated by Order 97/2023 is designed for a fairly broad range of potential beneficiaries. The regulation includes both owners of agricultural holdings as well as to groups of owners, but also to public and private entities that carry out activities with an impact on habitats or species of the Natura 2000 Network in the territory of Castilla-La Mancha.
These grants may be requested by owners of agricultural holdingsThis also includes groups of owners acting jointly in the same area or project. It also includes municipalities, local entities smaller than a municipality (such as hamlets or smaller local entities), associations of municipalities, and private companies carrying out activities in eligible areas.
They may also be beneficiaries natural persons who carry out an economic activityprovided that their activities are located in areas with a direct impact on habitats or species of the Natura 2000 Network, as well as non-profit associations and institutions that work in nature conservation, ecosystem restoration or projects related to species of community interest.
In all cases, the funded actions must be carried out in areas designated as LIC, ZEC or ZEPAor on land classified as High Nature Value Systems, always within the Autonomous Community of Castilla-La Mancha. This ensures that public investments are concentrated in areas of high ecological value where improved management can have a significant benefit for biodiversity.
Beyond these regional aid programs, there are also specific support programs for certain sectors with a strong ecological impact, such as beekeeping operationsFor example, in the Community of Madrid, the following are considered: aid aimed at owners of beekeeping farms (beekeeping) Those who already own jointly owned agricultural holdings, provided they are registered in the Livestock Holdings Register (REGA) of the community, are eligible. The aim is to strengthen the viability of the activity and, at the same time, its benefits for pollination and biodiversity.
Within the framework of the Rural Development Programme of Castilla-La Mancha 2014-2020, the aid regulated by Order 97/2023 is announced through a extract published in the Official Gazette of Castilla-La Mancha (DOCM)For the year 2023, the reference is the BDNS Extract with Identifier 693438, which contains the key details of the call.
The deadline for submitting applications is set at two months from the following day The deadline is the publication of the order and its summary in the official gazette. During this period, interested entities must prepare the required documentation and submit their application through the established channels. The call for applications itself usually includes links to download the full text of the order and the summary, making it easier for potential beneficiaries to review all the requirements and conditions.
Alongside these public funding programs, there are calls for proposals launched by private entities dedicated to supporting biodiversity. One example is the initiative launched by the Endesa Foundationwhich created an initial round of grants for biodiversity projects with the aim of identifying and supporting initiatives dedicated to the protection and conservation of emblematic species in Spain. Although the call for proposals is now closed, it serves as a model of collaboration between the private sector and conservation efforts.
This call for proposals from the Endesa Foundation was aimed at projects developed in Spain and was structured along two main lines: on the one hand, the Birdlife, with initiatives focused on the preservation and recovery of emblematic bird species in danger of extinction or vulnerability, essential for the balance of ecosystems; and, on the other hand, the terrestrial fauna, with projects focused on the conservation of equally emblematic and threatened terrestrial animal species.
The total financial endowment for this call amounted to 200.000 EurosThe funds were divided between two winning projects, one per category (birds and terrestrial fauna). Each selected entity received €100.000 to be used entirely for the execution of its project. The beneficiary profile was limited to legally constituted and registered non-profit entities in Spain, with the obligation to submit their applications through a digital form available on the foundation's website and in accordance with detailed legal guidelines.
The application period initially opened on September 15 and was extended until October 27This allows interested entities additional time to prepare their proposals. Although this particular call for proposals is now closed, it clearly illustrates the type of projects and the level of technical and organizational rigor that typically accompany biodiversity grants promoted by foundations and private organizations.
One of the most important aspects when ordering biodiversity grants It is the correct preparation of the documentation. The regulations governing these grants usually detail precisely which documents must be submitted and in which cases they can be obtained ex officio by the administration, and in which cases it is essential that the applicant submit them.
First, when the applicant objects to the administration directly consulting their data, they must accompany the request with the documentation proving identityFor individuals, this means providing a copy of their NIF or NIE. In the case of legal entities, a copy of the entity's NIF and the deed or document of incorporation, founding charter or other document that proves its creation, as well as any subsequent modifications, is required.
If the application is submitted on behalf of joint ownership communities or groups of ownersA copy of the deed or founding document, with any amendments, is also required, as well as the document proving who holds the power of representation. When acting through a representative, a copy of the representative's NIF or NIE (if there is express objection to the consultation of data) and a document proving representation by any legally valid means (notarized power of attorney, agreement of the entity, etc.) must be provided.
Another fundamental building block is the accreditation of land ownership where the work will be carried out. A copy of the property deed, a simple land registry extract, or a certificate from the Land Registry may be submitted. In certain cases, a cadastral certificate is accepted as an alternative. If the applicant is not the owner, they must submit a copy of the lease, transfer, sharecropping agreement, or usufruct document, duly signed and with taxes paid, along with the owner's express authorization to carry out the work.
In the case of local entities or associations of local entities, a certificate issued by the town hall secretaryWith the approval of the mayor's office, a document must be provided stating that the property is included in the Inventory of Assets. For actions on land held in joint ownership, the unanimous agreement of all owners is required, authorizing the applicant to carry out the actions covered by the aid.
Beyond the legal documents, it is essential to present Technical documentationTypically, a detailed technical report is required, outlining the proposed actions, objectives, environmental justification, itemized budget, and implementation schedule. Some programs also require a site plan showing the perimeter and precise location of all actions, recommending the use of official cartography, such as the SIGPAC database.
In certain calls for proposals, especially when dealing with projects that include the restoration of stone walls, the replacement of fences, or other boundary work, a responsible statement indicating that the consent of the owners of the adjacent properties has been obtained, attaching the official model provided for in the corresponding decree, duly completed.
It may also be required attached color photograph This document should document the existing conditions of the areas where work will be carried out, especially when it involves interventions in sensitive habitats, riverbank restoration, the creation of ponds, revegetation, or improvements for wildlife. This material serves as a reference for evaluating the project's impact and comparing the situation before and after implementation.
In economic terms, if VAT is not recoverable under national legislation, this must be proven by a supporting document from the Tax Agency. Furthermore, in the case of companies that, due to accounting regulations, cannot submit an abbreviated profit and loss account, a certification issued by an auditor registered in the Official Register of Auditors, which details the effective payment term of the client company, regardless of the financing used for advance collection from suppliers.
Along with identity and technical documentation, calls for biodiversity aid usually require applicants to provide the following: prove that they are up to date of their tax and social security obligations. This includes certificates from the State Tax Office, the Social Security Administration and, where applicable, the regional tax office, or confirmation of having no outstanding debts.
Data protection regulations also play an important role. According to the provisions of the Eighth additional provision of Organic Law 3/2018In accordance with the Personal Data Protection and Digital Rights Guarantee Act, the body managing the grants will verify the accuracy of the personal data provided with the application, especially those relating to the applicant's identity. This verification may be carried out by consulting official records and cross-referencing information with other government agencies.
When a person expressly objects to the administration accessing certain data, the obligation to directly submit the corresponding supporting documents is reinforced. In this context, it is essential that all The documentation provided must be truthful and up-to-date.since any discrepancy or falsehood may result in the denial of aid or even the opening of sanctioning procedures.
Furthermore, in the case of groups without legal personality (such as groups of natural or legal persons under private law, jointly owned agricultural holdings, communities of property or other economic and patrimonial units), it is usually required to formal designation of a representative or agentas well as specifying the implementation commitments and the amount assumed by each member. These members also become beneficiaries, with the corresponding obligations.
Throughout this process, the administration must respect transparency and access to information regulations, while also protecting sensitive personal data. Therefore, the processing of biodiversity aid combines technical, legal and data protection requirementsforming a complex but necessary framework to ensure the good management of public and private funds.
Institutional websites that provide information and manage requests for aid to biodiversity They are usually subject to regulations on information society services and data protection. A central element of this framework is cookies, small files that are downloaded to the user's device when browsing a website and that allow information about their browsing habits to be stored and retrieved.
On the website of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO), for example, a distinction is made between first-party cookies and third-party cookiesThis depends on who manages the domain from which they are sent and who processes the collected data. In turn, a distinction is made between session cookies (which are deleted when the browser is closed) and persistent cookies (which remain stored for a specific period of time).
Depending on their purpose, cookies can be classified as technical (essential for the basic operation of the website), personalization (adapting the service to user preferences), analytical (measuring audience and site usage), advertising, and behavioral advertising, the latter aimed at displaying ads tailored to the user's browsing profile. The Spanish Data Protection Agency offers a specific guide on the use of cookies, which serves as a reference for these websites.
MITECO uses the tool Adobe Analytics This analytics system helps us understand how visitors interact with our pages and applications. It uses a small set of cookies to collect data and generate site usage statistics, without personally identifying users or sharing information with third parties. These cookies can be accepted or rejected without affecting the portal's core functionality, although they do help improve service quality.
Additionally, pages that integrate content from the social network X (formerly Twitter) only generate cookies when the user is logged into that social network. In those cases, information about cookies and data processing is governed by the policies of [the relevant social network]. privacy of the social network itselfIn any case, institutional websites usually offer links to these documents to ensure that the user can find detailed information.
To manage cookie consent, the portal downloads its own technical, session cookie called miteco-complianceThis cookie records whether a user has accepted or rejected the use of non-essential cookies. This prevents users who have already accepted from repeatedly seeing the notification at the top or center of the screen. This cookie is required for the website to function correctly, and its use is explained in the cookie policy.
In practice, when a person enters the portal for the first time, a message is displayed with a summary of the cookie policy and options are offered for accept or reject Non-essential cookies. The text usually warns that consenting to the use of technologies such as cookies allows the processing of data such as browsing behavior or unique identifiers, while refusing or withdrawing consent may negatively affect certain features or functionalities of the website.
Behind many of the biodiversity aid programs in Spain lies a network of programs, European funds and organizations that co-finance and coordinate the actions. Some are well known at the community level, while others have a more technical profile but are crucial for channeling resources towards specific projects on the ground.
First of all, the one himself Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) It is responsible for proposing and implementing the Government's policy on combating climate change and for developing policies to address the demographic challenge and rural depopulation. Its scope of action includes biodiversity protection, water management, air quality, and the design of national strategies related to green infrastructure and ecological connectivity.
In turn, the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR) It is the instrument through which Spain channels Next Generation EU funds in the 2021-2023 period (and subsequent extensions), focusing on four main pillars: ecological transition, digitalization of the economy, social and territorial cohesion, and gender equality. Although the PRTR is not limited to biodiversity, it does include measures and reforms that directly impact ecosystem conservation and the development of sustainable activities in rural areas.
La Biodiversity FoundationThe agency, which reports to the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO), has been designated as an Intermediate Body for the Spanish Multiregional Programme of the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the period 2021-2027. From this position, it promotes actions linked, above all, to the National Strategy for Green Infrastructure and Ecological Connectivity and Restoration (IVCRE), which aims to articulate a coherent system of natural spaces, ecological corridors and restoration measures.
At the European level, the European Biodiversity Partnership Biodiversa+ It is structured as a co-financed association that supports cutting-edge biodiversity research with an impact on policy and society. It forms part of the European Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, which aims to put the continent's biodiversity on a clear path to recovery by that year. It frequently launches calls for transnational research projects with the participation of teams from different countries. Dissemination and discussion at specialized events, such as the international congress of agroecologyThey contribute to bringing scientific results closer to practical management.
Another key player is the LIFE programLIFE, which funds environmental conservation projects and supports the development of EU policy and legislation in this area. Over the years, LIFE has been a major source of funding for initiatives to restore habitats, protect iconic species, manage Natura 2000 sites, and test new solutions to address climate change.
In the marine and fishing sector, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund It was the instrument proposed for the period 2014-2020 with the objective of ensuring the sustainable development of fishing, aquaculture, and other marine-related activities. Currently, this role is assumed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF), which covers the period 2021-2027 and replaces the previous European Fisheries Fund (EMFF), with greater emphasis on environmental sustainability and the conservation of marine resources.
In the social field, the European Social Fund And its updated version, the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), supports the creation of quality jobs, improved training, and the promotion of fairer employment opportunities. The ESF+ has also been designed to help Member States address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic by fostering a skilled and resilient workforce, prepared for the transition to a greener and more digital economy, which also indirectly contributes to the advancement of economic activities linked to the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
El Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food This framework is complemented by its role as the competent body for agricultural, livestock, and fisheries resources, the agri-food industry, rural development, and food. Many measures supporting biodiversity in agricultural and forestry environments are designed jointly or in coordination with this ministry, especially those related to CAP policies, farming practices beneficial to fauna and flora, and the integration of environmental criteria into production.
Although each fund, program, and organization has its own scope of action, they all form a system that It channels economic, technical, and human resources. towards projects that support the diversity of species and habitats, the quality of ecosystems and the compatibility between economic activity and conservation.
Looking at the set of regulations, calls for proposals, and programs, one can see a combination of public and private efforts to support projects that improve the conservation status of the Natura 2000 network, foster ecological connectivity, promote studies for the declaration of new protected areas, and highlight the value of ecosystem services. To take advantage of these opportunities, interested individuals and organizations must navigate with ease the complexities of administrative requirements, tax obligations, data protection, and digital tools such as cookies, in an environment where the biodiversity It is at the heart of environmental and rural development policies.
