Environmental issues are taking centre stage in a major funding initiative being launched by the European Economic Area (EEA). A series of financial mechanisms have been set up to help integrate the new European Union member states and Norway, the group’s leading donor, is providing F1.13 billion for the effort through 2009. These funds create a significant opportunity for Norwegian environmental technology firms to gain market share in Eastern Europe, since environmental protection and sustainable development are listed as top priority spending areas.