The PEACE-Air (Partnership for Evidence and Action on Clean Air) project was officially launched at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal on 19 January 2026 and is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project brings together universities, local authorities, environmental agencies, health organisations and community groups to tackle air pollution through coordinated, evidence-based action.
With €6,499,957 in PEACEPLUS funding, PEACE-Air will focus on three key sources of air pollution: solid fuel burning, transport emissions and agricultural ammonia. The programme combines scientific research, behavioural insights, community engagement and policy support, ensuring that evidence is accessible and directly informs decision-making.
Ulster University joins a consortium of ten core partners, including ERNACT (lead partner), Donegal County Council, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Queen’s University Belfast, University College Cork, TU Dublin, University of Galway, Trinity College Dublin and the Institute of Public Health. Seven associate partners, including the EPA, NIEA and Asthma + Lung UK, will provide specialist expertise.
The launch event brought together policymakers, researchers and community representatives from across the island. It included a keynote address from Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, a video message from Finance Minister John O’Dowd MLA, and contributions from SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre. International and regional public health perspectives were provided by Dr Maria Neira, formerly of the World Health Organisation, and Joseph Carter from Asthma + Lung UK, Northern Ireland.
A key long-term ambition of PEACE-Air is the development of the first cross-border Strategy and Action Plan for Clean Air, creating a lasting legacy for communities and public bodies across Northern Ireland and the border counties.
Through its role in PEACE-Air, Ulster University is contributing its research expertise and regional insight to address one of the most pressing shared environmental and public health challenges facing the island.
