The Air Quality Taskforce at the Environmental Industries Commission (EIC) met on Tuesday 7 February to discuss important updates related to the Environmental Improvement Plan, and discuss emerging issues as part of EIC’s forthcoming Innovation Campaign.  

Members of the Taskforce welcomed guests from Innovate UK. Members discussed barriers to innovation and explored new findings by Innovate UK on the size and nature of the Clean Air Tech Sector in the UK.

The discussion, which forms part of EIC’s soon to be launched ‘Innovation Campaign’, highlighted the importance of innovation in tackling air pollution and reducing the impact of emissions on the environment.

Many companies are eager to develop new solutions and technologies, but often face significant challenges in securing funding, navigating complex regulations, and overcoming entrenched attitudes.

The meeting was also an opportunity for EIC members to collaborate on the Environmental Improvement Plan. The Plan sets out a comprehensive strategy for reducing air pollution and improving the quality of the air we breathe.

The Taskforce members welcomed the Plan as an important step forward and discussed ways to ensure its successful implementation. There is need for close collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to ensure that the Plan is fully implemented and achieves its goals.

The Taskforce members discussed several specific initiatives that could help to support the implementation of the Plan, such as incentives for businesses to adopt cleaner technologies and more effective public awareness campaigns.

Michael Lunn, part of the Policy Team at the EIC said: “This was a productive and informative session, and a great way to begin our work in 2023. The session also highlighted the urgent need for innovation and collaboration in the fight against air pollution.

"The presentations and discussions provided valuable insights into the challenges facing the industry and identified a range of promising solutions and strategies for promoting progress.

"We have a busy forward work programme ahead, including EIC’s Innovation Campaign, details of which will be shared soon."

To get involved in EIC’s Air Quality Taskforce, please contact Michael Lunn.

Find out more about EIC’s Air Quality Taskforce.