Researchers from Trinity College Dublin are working with collaborators across the island of Ireland on a large-scale cross-border effort to improve air quality.
Through a structured program of scientific research, behavioral insights, community outreach, and policy support, Peace Air addresses three major sources of air pollution: solid fuel combustion, transportation emissions, and agricultural ammonia.
The project brings together local authorities, universities, environmental authorities, health organizations and community groups from both jurisdictions, ensuring that the work is based on shared priorities and accessible evidence.
John Gallagher, associate professor of engineering at Trinity University, said: “For us, the success of this project will ensure that air quality improves for everyone in border areas, whether in towns, cities or indeed rural areas, by informing policies that truly improve the health and wellbeing of people of all ages.”
Collect air quality data to reduce exposure to pollution
As part of the project, researchers will collect air quality data in communities along the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland over the next two years to define solutions to reduce exposure of vulnerable populations to air pollution.
The data is then transformed to support the implementation of physical or nature-based design solutions as interventions to reduce pollution hotspots in and around educational and healthcare settings.
The aim is to reduce and/or eliminate emissions from local transport and residential combustion sources, so that vulnerable people, such as children, are exposed to less pollution when playing outside or entering buildings during breaks or sports.
Irish Finance Minister John O’Dowd explained: “By providing policymakers with the evidence and tools they need to develop effective clean air strategies, this initiative will ensure that decisions are informed and coordinated, delivering lasting benefits for communities across the island.”
Combating air pollution with coordinated action
The launch of the PEACE-Air project highlighted the importance of addressing air pollution through coordinated, evidence-based action.
Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalization, said: “Funded by the PEACEPLUS programme, PEACE-Air is leveraging its unique scientific and research capabilities to tackle a common challenge across borders: air pollution.”
“PEACE-Air’s work helps inform strategies to protect the natural environment and ensure clean air for people and communities across the island of Ireland.”
He added: “With its focus on strategic cross-border engagement, Peace Aviation demonstrates the positive public health and environmental impact that can be achieved through effective North-South cooperation.”
PEACE-Air Consortium
The PEACE-Air partnership is made up of 10 core partners including ERNACT (lead partner), Donegal County Council, City of Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Queen’s University Belfast, University College Cork, TU Dublin, University of Galway, University of Ulster, Trinity and the Institute of Public Health.
Seven alliance partners will also support delivery and provide expertise, including the EPA, NIEA, Asthma and Lung UK, the Irish Heart Foundation and the Irish Environmental Health Association.
Source link
