€6.5m project to tackle air pollution across Ireland
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin are leading a major cross-border initiative to improve air quality across the island of Ireland. The project, called PEACE-Air, targets three main sources of pollution: solid fuel burning, transport emissions, and agricultural ammonia.
The initiative combines scientific research, behavioural insights, community engagement, and policy support to reduce pollution and protect public health.
Collaboration across borders
PEACE-Air brings together universities, local authorities, environmental and health agencies, and community groups from both Ireland and Northern Ireland. This ensures the project addresses shared priorities and produces evidence that is accessible and useful to policymakers.
John Gallagher, Associate Professor in Trinity’s School of Engineering, said: “Our goal is to improve air quality for everyone in border communities, whether in towns, cities, or rural areas, while informing policy that enhances health and wellbeing.”
Collecting data to protect vulnerable populations
Over the next two years, researchers will gather air quality data in communities along the Ireland–Northern Ireland border. They will identify ways to reduce pollution exposure, especially for vulnerable groups such as children.
The data will help design physical or nature-based interventions to reduce pollution near schools, healthcare facilities, and public spaces. This includes tackling emissions from home heating and local transport.
“By providing policymakers with evidence and practical tools, this initiative ensures decisions are coordinated and deliver lasting benefits across communities,” said Ireland’s Finance Minister John O’Dowd.
Coordinated action for cleaner air
At the project launch, officials highlighted the importance of evidence-based cross-border collaboration. Jack Chambers, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, noted: “PEACE-Air uses scientific expertise to address shared air pollution challenges. It helps protect the environment and ensures clean air for people across the island.”
He added: “The project demonstrates how North-South cooperation can achieve measurable public health and environmental benefits.”
The PEACE-Air consortium
The project involves ten core partners, including ERNACT (lead), Donegal County Council, Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council, Queen’s University Belfast, University College Cork, TU Dublin, University of Galway, Ulster University, Trinity, and the Institute of Public Health.
Seven associate partners, such as the EPA, NIEA, Asthma & Lung UK, the Irish Heart Foundation, and the Environmental Health Association of Ireland, provide expert support and specialist knowledge.
