(October 24, 2015) Researchers
from UK and Chinese universities are collaborating on four new projects to work
towards achieving low carbon cities in the UK and China. The projects were
announced as Chinese President, Xi Jinping visited the UK this week.
The projects will receive over £3 million in funding from
the UK’s Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), with
matched equivalent resources from the National Natural Science Foundation of
China (NSFC).
Funded under the Low Carbon Cities programme, the projects
will encourage collaboration between leading UK and Chinese academics,
combining research to reduce the carbon emissions of existing technologies.
The projects will also deliver fundamental research into
alternative energy sources and a reduction of energy demand, all with a focus
on future urban environments.
By using comparative research to examine social, political
and technical challenges, this will help the UK and China to successfully
transition towards future low carbon cities. This programme and joint funding
process has been facilitated by the Research Councils UK (RCUK) China office.
Professor Philip Nelson FREng, EPSRC’s Chief Executive,
said: The aim of this UK-China research collaboration will be to reduce
worldwide carbon dioxide (CO2) production and ensure energy security and
affordability. This is the first of three low carbon innovation projects
between EPSRC and NSFC. The projects build on the strength of our
internationally renowned research and will benefit both the UK and Chinese
economies.
Professor Che Chengwei, Deputy Director General, Department
of Engineering and Material Sciences, NSFC commented: NSFC has been working
closely with EPSRC for several years to address challenges related to achieving
a low-carbon economy. This latest programme, with a focus on future urban
environments, will build substantially stronger links between Chinese and UK
research communities in relevant areas. It will also brighten the future
bilateral collaboration between both countries.
The four projects funded are: