Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Donegal recently hosted the official launch of the PEACE-Air (Partnership for Evidence and Action on Clean Air) project.

This significant cross-border venture is backed by the PEACEPLUS programme, which is overseen by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), and aims to bolster cooperation while improving air quality throughout the island of Ireland.

The initiative has secured €6,499,957 in funding to investigate and mitigate three primary pollution sources: agricultural ammonia, transport emissions, and the burning of solid fuels. By combining scientific study with policy support and community outreach, the project seeks to create a healthier environment for all.

A diverse consortium of ten core partners leads the project, with ERNACT serving as the lead partner alongside Donegal County Council, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, and several prestigious universities including Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, and Trinity College Dublin. They are further supported by seven associate partners, such as the EPA and Asthma & Lung UK.

During the event, attendees heard from key political figures and environmental experts. The launch featured a speech from Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, and a video contribution from Finance Minister John O'Dowd MLA. Dr Maria Neira, formerly of the World Health Organization, and Joseph Carter of Asthma + Lung UK also shared their insights. Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers TD said: "I welcome the launch of the PEACE-Air project. Funded by the PEACEPLUS programme, PEACE-Air harnesses unique scientific and research capacity to address the shared cross-border challenge of air pollution. The work of PEACE-Air will help inform strategies to protect the natural environment and ensure clean air for people and communities across the island of Ireland. With a focus on strategic cross-border engagement, PEACE-Air exemplifies the positive public health and environmental impacts that can be achieved through effective North South collaboration."

Finance Minister John O'Dowd MLA said: "I welcome this significant investment in the PEACE-Air project, which aims to create healthier communities and promote environmental sustainability. By equipping policymakers with the evidence and tools needed to shape effective clean air strategies, this initiative will ensure decisions are informed, co-ordinated, and deliver lasting benefits for communities across the island."

The project's long-term goal is the creation of the first-ever cross-border Strategy and Action Plan for Clean Air, ensuring the research translates into practical, lasting policy.

SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: "Air pollution is a shared challenge that knows no borders. PEACE-Air will be the first cross-border collaboration of its kind to tackle this challenge. The project will not only improve the quality of the air we breathe, but also demonstrate the immense value of partnership working across boundaries. It delivers unique scientific capability from across the island of Ireland, ensuring inclusive geographic coverage of Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland. This funding demonstrates PEACEPLUS in action, bringing experts together to work on delivering positive change which will benefit the lives of so many people across our programme area by protecting and enhancing our natural environment."

Dr Caitriona Strain, General Manager of ERNACT, said: "ERNACT is proud to lead the PEACE-Air partnership and to support a project that places robust evidence, collaboration, and practical action at the centre of efforts to improve air quality across the island. Air pollution is a shared challenge that does not recognise borders, and PEACE-Air provides a unique opportunity to bring together research excellence, public authorities, and communities to inform policy and deliver real, long-term benefits for public health, the environment, and regional cooperation. This project will leave a lasting legacy through the development of a cross-border Strategy and Action Plan for Clean Air, grounded in science and shaped by those most affected."