Into clear skies – launch of the Institute for Aviation and the Environment

Issued jointly by the University of Cambridge and the Natural Environment Research Council.

A new institute is being launched today (9 December) in Cambridge that will offer a truly integrated approach to predicting and mitigating the future effects of aircraft emissions.

The ‘Institute for Aviation and the Environment’ (IAE) will look at the physics and chemistry of aviation emissions from their formation in the aircraft engine to their impact on near-airport pollution and global climate change. It will investigate technological and operational solutions to minimise that impact, along with possible regulatory policies, while taking into account socio-economic dimensions.

Funding from the Natural Environment Research Council’s Knowledge Transfer Programme has provided the opportunity to co-ordinate and extend the University’s existing research activity. The Institute will be unique in bringing together leading academic researchers from a broad range of disciplines in active engagement with industry and government.

Professor Peter Haynes, the Director of the IAE said:

“Aviation is a multi-billion dollar industry and a vital component of modern life, but has a serious impact on the environment. Researchers at the University of Cambridge are world leaders in fields of atmospheric science, engineering and economics which are central to predicting environmental impacts of aviation and to devising future technological and operational strategies for mitigation of those impacts. The close interaction between the University, industry and government fostered in the new Institute for Aviation and Environment will focus leading-edge research on real-world problems.”

The launch event is being attended by representatives from engine and airframe manufacturers, airport operators and developers, airlines, and government agencies. These organisations are now being invited to become participants in the Institute.