As global environmental pressures intensify, Europe must ensure food security, restore biodiversity, and transition to a circular and climate-resilient economy. Horizon Europe’s Cluster 6 — Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment — addresses these challenges through transformative research and innovation (R&I) actions in 2025.
Cluster 6 underpins the European Green Deal, the Farm to Fork Strategy, the EU Biodiversity Strategy, and the Circular Economy Action Plan. With a focus on sustainability, resilience, and ecological integrity, it promotes systemic solutions across sectors that sustain life and livelihoods.
The Mission of Cluster 6
Cluster 6 is centered on:
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Safeguarding biodiversity and ecosystems
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Enabling a sustainable bioeconomy and circular economy
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Advancing climate-smart agriculture, forestry and fisheries
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Ensuring food and water security
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Supporting rural and coastal communities
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Enhancing soil, water and ocean health
Through its interdisciplinary approach, Cluster 6 helps deliver Europe’s commitments under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, the European Oceans Pact, and the European Water Resilience Strategy.
Key Destinations in Cluster 6
The 2025 Work Programme structures its calls into seven major destinations:
1. Biodiversity and ecosystem services
Focuses on:
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Reversing biodiversity loss
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Nature-based solutions
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Monitoring and restoration tools
2. Fair, healthy and environmentally friendly food systems
Targets:
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Sustainable farming practices
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Food safety and nutrition
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Reduction of food waste
3. Circular economy and bioeconomy sectors
Supports:
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Bio-based innovation
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Circular business models
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Waste reduction and valorization
4. Clean environment and zero pollution
Addresses:
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Soil, air and water quality
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Pollution monitoring and remediation
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Environmental risk management
5. Land, ocean and water for climate action
Includes:
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Blue economy and coastal resilience
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Water management and governance
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Marine and freshwater ecosystem protection
6. Resilient rural, coastal and urban communities
Invests in:
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Social innovation in rural areas
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Resilience to environmental change
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Territorial development
7. Innovative governance, environmental observations and digital solutions
Promotes:
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Earth observation and monitoring systems
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Digital tools for policy and resource management
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Citizen science and engagement platforms
Funding and Strategic Importance
In 2025, €833 million is allocated to Cluster 6, with:
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64.5% of activities contributing to climate action
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Strong contributions to biodiversity goals (~€392 million from 2026–2027 budget also planned)
Cluster 6 supports:
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The New EU Circular Economy Action Plan
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The EU Bioeconomy Strategy
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Blue carbon and ocean sustainability research
How to Apply
Proposals must address specific “destinations” and topics listed on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Calls outline expected outcomes, scope, eligible actors, and deadlines.
New to Horizon Europe? Visit Part 1 of this guide for a comprehensive explanation of the application process, eligibility rules, and expert tips.
Conclusion: Regenerating the Planet Through Innovation
Cluster 6 empowers Europe to transform its relationship with nature and natural resources. By supporting science-based solutions in agriculture, oceans, food systems and ecosystems, it fosters environmental sustainability, economic resilience, and societal well-being.
At EUcalls, we help stakeholders navigate these funding opportunities with confidence. Find project partners, access call insights, and submit stronger proposals with the support of Europe’s largest EU funding platform.
