It is responsible for managing specific programmes in the fields of energy, the environment, and business support.
While the Agency has its own legal identity, it reports to several Directorates-General of the European Commission, which remain responsible for programming and evaluation of the programmes.
The agency then also became involved in the operations of the Eco-Innovation programme, which was overseen by DG Environment and provides assistance to pre-market environmental products.
It also operates part of LIFE, a financial instrument to support conservation and environmental actions in the EU.
[citation needed] EASME is a temporary agency, initially established for a period beginning on 1 January 2004 and ending on 31 December 2008.