When people talk about biodiversity support in Spain, many only think of grants for ecological projects. However, behind this support 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 managing these grant opportunities typically relies on digital tools (such as cookies and analytics systems) to improve service, track visits, and ensure the portal functions correctly. This explains why, when searching for information on biodiversity grants, we simultaneously encounter legal texts on data protection, cookie policies, and very specific documentation requirements.
What is meant by biodiversity aid and its main objectives
The so-called aid for the maintenance and improvement of biodiversity consists of public subsidies that aim 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 network or listed as having high natural value. This aid falls within the framework 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 Regional Ministry of Sustainable Development, regulates aid for non-productive actions in the forestry sector , included in sub-measure 4.4 of the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014-2020, 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 generate direct economic benefits, but rather to promote nature conservation.
Among the specific aims of this funding are the restoration, preservation, and enhancement of biodiversity in habitats and species included within the Natura 2000 network, as well as the protection of the natural ecosystems it comprises. This includes actions concerning wild flora and fauna and landscape features that are key to maintaining ecological connectivity.
Another set of objectives focuses on strengthening the coherence and connectivity of this ecological network by managing elements such as rivers and riverbanks, traditional boundary systems (stone walls, hedges, rural enclosures), ponds, riverside woodlands, 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.
Furthermore, the aid includes support for studies aimed at declaring new protected natural areas , including areas that may eventually be recognized through international agreements. In this context, Natura 2000 sites can serve as core areas, buffer zones, or priority areas for such future designations.
Actions are also planned for the identification, quantification, compensation, and commercialization of ecosystem services . This includes, for example, assigning economic value to services such as pollination, water regulation, and carbon sequestration, and developing management and conservation measures that allow for their maintenance and enhancement, especially in areas 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 can be key to the commercialization of these 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 and groups of owners, as well as public and private entities that carry out activities with an impact on habitats or species within the Natura 2000 network in the territory of Castilla-La Mancha.
These subsidies can be requested by owners of agricultural holdings , as well as groups of owners acting jointly in the same area or project. Also eligible are municipalities, local entities smaller than a municipality (such as hamlets or minor local entities), associations of municipalities, and private companies carrying out activities in eligible areas.
Individuals engaged in economic activity may also be eligible , provided 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 working 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 Sites of Community Importance (SCIs), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), or Special Protection Areas (SPAs), or 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 subsidies, there are also specific support programs for certain sectors with a significant ecological impact, such as beekeeping . For example, the Community of Madrid offers subsidies for beekeepers and jointly owned agricultural holdings, provided they are registered in the Community's Livestock Farm Registry (REGA). 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 Program of Castilla-La Mancha 2014-2020, the aid regulated by Order 97/2023 is announced through an extract published in the Official Gazette of Castilla-La Mancha (DOCM) . For the 2023 fiscal year, the reference is the BDNS Extract with Identifier 693438, which contains the key details of the call for applications.
The deadline for submitting applications is two months from the day after 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, thus allowing potential beneficiaries to review all the requirements and conditions.
Alongside these public funding programs, there are also calls for proposals launched by private entities dedicated to supporting biodiversity. One example is the initiative launched by the Endesa Foundation , which created its first 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 in two main lines: on the one hand, avifauna , 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, terrestrial fauna , with projects aimed at the conservation of equally emblematic and threatened terrestrial animal species.
The total funding for this call for proposals amounted to €200.000 , to be divided between two winning projects, one per category (birds and terrestrial fauna). Each selected organization received €100.000 to be used entirely for the implementation of its project. Eligibility was limited to legally constituted and registered non-profit organizations in Spain, which were required to submit their applications using a digital form available on the foundation's website and in accordance with detailed legal guidelines.
The application period initially opened on September 15th and was extended until October 27th , allowing interested organizations 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 typically associated with biodiversity grants promoted by foundations and private organizations.
One of the most important aspects when applying for biodiversity grants 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 by the administration, and in which cases it is essential that the applicant submit them.
First, when an applicant objects to the administration directly accessing their data, they must include proof of identity with their request . For individuals, this means providing a copy of their National Identity Document (NIF) or Foreigner's Identity Number (NIE). For legal entities, a copy of the entity's NIF and the deed or document of incorporation, founding charter, or other document proving its creation, as well as any subsequent amendments, is required.
If the application is submitted on behalf of joint ownership communities or groups of owners , a copy of the deed or founding document, with any amendments, and the document proving who holds the power of attorney are also required. When acting through a representative, a copy of the representative's tax identification number (NIF) or foreign resident identification number (NIE) must be provided (if there is express objection to the consultation of data), along with a document proving the representation by any legally valid means (notarized power of attorney, agreement of the entity, etc.).
Another essential requirement is proof of ownership of the land where the work will be carried out. This can be a copy of the deed, a simple land registry extract, or a certificate from the Land Registry. 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 all 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 secretary , with the mayor's approval, is required, 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 submit technical documentation . Typically, 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 actions on boundaries, a declaration of responsibility may be required , 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.
A color photographic appendix may also be required , documenting the previous state of the areas where work will be carried out, especially when dealing with interventions in sensitive habitats, riverbank restoration, pond creation, 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 demonstrated 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 certificate issued by an auditor registered with the Official Register of Auditors may be required, detailing the client company's effective payment terms, regardless of any financing used for advance payments to suppliers.
Along with identity and technical documentation, calls for biodiversity grants typically require applicants to prove they are up-to-date with their tax and social security obligations. This includes certificates from the national tax authority, social security, and, where applicable, the regional tax authority, or confirmation that they have no outstanding debts.
Data protection regulations also play an important role. In accordance with the provisions of the eighth additional provision of Organic Law 3/2018 , on the Protection of Personal Data and the guarantee of digital rights, 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 public administrations.
When an individual 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 documentation provided be truthful and up-to-date , as any discrepancy or falsification may result in the denial of aid or even the initiation of disciplinary proceedings.
Furthermore, in the case of groups without legal personality (such as groups of individuals or private legal entities, jointly owned agricultural holdings, joint ownership communities, or other economic and patrimonial units), the formal appointment of a representative or agent is usually required , as well as a detailed description of 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 protecting sensitive personal data. Therefore, the processing of biodiversity grants combines technical, legal, and data protection requirements , forming a complex but necessary framework to ensure the sound management of public and private funds.
Institutional websites that provide information and manage applications for biodiversity grants are typically 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.
The website of the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO), for example, distinguishes between first-party and third-party cookies , depending on who manages the domain from which they are sent and who processes the collected data. It also differentiates 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.
The Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) uses Adobe Analytics to understand how visitors interact with its websites and applications. This tool employs a small set of cookies to collect data and generate website usage statistics, without personally identifying users or sharing information with third parties. These cookies can be accepted or rejected without affecting the essential functionality of the portal, although they help improve the quality of service.
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 these cases, information about cookies and data processing is governed by the social network's own privacy policies . In any case, institutional websites usually provide links to these documents to ensure that users can find detailed information.
To manage cookie consent, the portal downloads its own technical session cookie, called miteco-compliance , which records whether the user has accepted or rejected the use of non-essential cookies. This prevents users who have already accepted from repeatedly seeing the notice at the top or center of the screen. This cookie is required for the portal to function correctly, and its use is explained in the cookie policy.
In practice, when a person first visits the website, a message is displayed summarizing the cookie policy and offering options to accept or reject non-essential cookies. The text typically warns that consenting to the use of technologies like cookies allows the processing of data such as browsing behavior or unique identifiers, while refusing or withdrawing consent may negatively affect certain website features or functionalities.
Behind much of the biodiversity aid in Spain lies a network of programs, European funds, and organizations that co-finance and coordinate actions. Some are well-known at the EU level, while others have a more technical profile but are crucial for channeling resources toward specific projects on the ground.
First, the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) 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.
For its part, the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR) 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.
The Biodiversity Foundation , under 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+ is a co-funded partnership that supports cutting-edge biodiversity research with policy and societal impact. 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. Biodiversa+ frequently launches calls for transnational research projects involving teams from different countries. Dissemination and discussion at specialized events, such as the International Congress of Agroecology , help bridge the gap between scientific findings and practical management.
Another key player is the LIFE program , 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 fisheries sector, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund was the instrument proposed for the 2014-2020 period with the aim of ensuring the sustainable development of fisheries, aquaculture, and other marine-related activities. Currently, this role is assumed by the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFF) , which covers the 2021-2027 period and replaces the former European Fisheries Fund (EMFF), with a greater emphasis on environmental sustainability and the conservation of marine resources.
In the social sphere, the European Social Fund and its updated version, the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), support 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. This also indirectly contributes to the advancement of economic activities linked to the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food complements this framework, serving 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 with or in coordination with this ministry, especially those related to CAP policies, agricultural 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 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 range 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 be adept at navigating administrative requirements, tax obligations, data protection, and digital tools such as cookies, in an environment where biodiversity is at the heart of environmental and rural development policies.
