The 2010 Competitiveness and Innovation Programme (CIP) funded 42 eco-innovation projects under the 2010 call for proposals. The CIP Eco-innovation funds are designed to support new products, services and processes that use fewer natural resources and produce less waste, emissions and pollutants.

The 42 projects funded contribute to protecting the environment while sharpening Europe's competitive edge. In this occasion, successful applicants include a non-invasive method to repair leaks in water pipes; acoustic panels to dampen noise from railways using rubber from old tyres; biodegradable interior panels that can reduce the weight of an aircraft by 15%; a fermentation process that allows CO2 recovery in breweries; and a prefabricated housing system made of locally sourced renewable materials (wood and straw).

Janez Potočnik, European Commissioner for the Environment underlined that these eco-innovations are a great source of inspiration. They show a more environmentally-friendly, yet highly successful way of doing business in Europe. The Commissioner also stated that the funding available for 2011 increased three million from last year - €38 million - but still far below the increasing level of demand. The 2011 Call for proposals is already available.

In 2010 some 287 proposals were submitted to the call, a 42% increase compared to 2009. Around 66% of both participants and beneficiaries are from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Eco-innovation projects feature a high participation of SMEs, most of which have never received EU funding before.