Evaluating the Impact of Non-Profit Organizations on the Implementation of the European Green Deal
Creators: name: Euán-Díaz, Edith Cristina
Publisher: name: Zenodo
Year: 2024

description: This Thesis investigates the role of Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) in implementing the European Green Deal (EGD), focusing on their involvement, funding, and impact on project outcomes.

Effective environmental solutions require partnerships among NPOs, governments, and the private sector. The EGD exemplifies such collaborative efforts, aiming to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. These collaborations leverage the strengths of each sector: regulatory oversight from governments, innovation from the private sector, and community engagement from NPOs, etc. NPOs provide expert knowledge, raise public awareness, and engage communities. They influence policy through research and advocacy, ensuring policies are scientifically grounded. NPOs are also indispensable in bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and public action.

Power imbalances can marginalize NPOs, especially when private sector interests dominate. Despite these challenges, NPOs remain essential for effective environmental action. Ensuring equitable power dynamics and robust frameworks is critical to maintaining a focus on sustainable and inclusive development.

The analysis of 73 EGD projects reveals a total of €960.61 million in EU funding, with additional contributions bringing total project costs to €1.24 billion. Private Sector Entities and Educational Institutions receive most of the funding, while NPOs receive a smaller share, averaging €448,999.22 per partner compared to the overall average of €489,106.95. This funding disparity may limit their capacity to contribute fully to the EGD’s goals.

The study combines data analysis of EGD projects and a survey of NPOs involved in these projects. The analysis included the information of 237 NPOs (out of the total of 1,574 unique partners taking part in the EGD). The survey gathered insights on NPO roles, contributions, and challenges, providing a comprehensive understanding of their impact on EGD initiatives.

NPOs are involved in various capacities, significantly contributing to project management, advocacy, and technical solutions. On average, each EGD project involves four NPOs, with some projects engaging significantly more, such as SchoolFood4Change with 21 NPOs and ZeroW with 15. However, funding distribution shows significant variability, with many NPOs receiving less than the average amount. Geographically, NPO participation is concentrated in Western and Southern Europe, indicating better infrastructure and funding opportunities in these regions.

Summary of the Overarching Policy Recommendations:

1.     Equitable Funding and Incentive Structures: Balance funding between large and small NPOs, secure long-term funding, and foster innovation through competitive mechanisms.

2.     Enhanced Collaboration and Networking: Promote strategic partnerships and facilitate knowledge exchange among NPOs, EU bodies, and local governments.

3.     Capacity Building and Technical Support: Provide technical assistance and training to smaller NPOs, and support technological innovations.

4.     Inclusive and Diverse Participation: Incentivize diverse NPO engagement and increase public and stakeholder participation with educational initiatives.

5.     Regulatory Frameworks and Monitoring: Develop regulatory frameworks, simplify administrative processes, and ensure systematic monitoring and evaluation for sustainability.

NPOs play a critical role in the success of the EGD by translating policy into action and engaging communities. Addressing strategic and financial constraints is essential to maximize their contributions. By understanding and supporting the integral role of NPOs, policymakers and funders could ensure the effective implementation of the EGD and similar initiatives.