Short introduction to GCE website

Within the 6th Framework Programme (2002-2006) for research, technological development and demonstration (RTD), environmental research is mainly funded under the "Global Change and Ecosystems" (GCE) thematic sub-priority.

This site provides information on the research activities to be funded by the European Commission under this sub-priority as well as support for the submission of proposals and project management.

Complementarily to the research areas defined under the "Global Change and Ecosystems" sub-priority, environmental research will also be financed through specific activities designed to provide Scientific Support to Policies (SSP).

As main other cross-cutting issues for a better integration of the European Research Area (ERA), SMEs involvement and International Cooperation are particularly important dimensions of the 6th Framework Programme and will receive specific emphasis along the implementation of the "Global Change and Ecosystems" sub-priority. Supporting information on relevant activities is available on this site.

Most of the research activities funded in the framework of "Global Change and Ecosystems" are building on previous and still ongoing activities supported within the Environment and Sustainable Development (ESD) Programme as part of the 5th Framework Programme. Please refer to this site for up-to-date information on projects relevant for "Global Change and Ecosystems" priority. Your attention is also drawn on the existence of other past research activities aiming at sustainable development that are not continued with the same level of intensity in FP6, i.e.: some specific aspects relating to 'Sustainable Management and Quality of Water' (such as socio-economic aspects of sustainable use of water, combating diffuse pollution and pollution surveillance and control); Technological Hazards and generic activities on Earth Observation; and 'Urban sustainability and Cultural Heritage'.