EIA Official News Archives - Environmental Industries Association

Prime Minister Keir Starmer Announces Resignation; Leadership Contest Underway

Posted on 22 June 202622 June 2026 by Michael Lunn

The Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, has announced his resignation as Leader of the Labour Party. He will remain in office as Prime Minister on an interim basis until the Labour Party has formally elected a new leader.

The Labour Party’s governing bodies are expected to initiate a leadership contest through the Parliamentary Labour Party, with a timetable designed to ensure continuity of government while enabling a full and robust selection process.

Early indications suggest that the contest may favour Andy Burnham, who is expected to return to Parliament as a Member of Parliament shortly, positioning him as a leading contender in the leadership race.

The Labour Party has emphasised that the leadership process will be used not only to select a new leader but also to rigorously test and refine policy priorities in preparation for the next phase of government.

A new Labour Leader—and therefore Prime Minister—is expected to be confirmed by July, ahead of the Parliamentary summer recess. This timetable is designed to allow the incoming Prime Minister the summer period to establish their leadership team and agenda, with Parliament reconvening in September.

Michael Lunn, Chief Executive of the Environmental Industries Association, said:

“This transition represents an important moment for the country and for the environmental sector. As the Labour Party considers its future leadership and policy direction, it is essential that environmental priorities—particularly around infrastructure, energy transition, and industrial decarbonisation—remain central to the government’s agenda.

The period leading to September provides a valuable window to strengthen policy frameworks and give industry the confidence it needs to invest and deliver. We look forward to working constructively with the incoming Prime Minister to ensure the UK maintains momentum on clean growth and sustainable infrastructure.”

Net Zero Needs Talent – So Why Is Government Pricing Graduates Out of Jobs?

Posted on 1 May 2026 by Michael Lunn

Britain is crying out for green skills – yet government policy is making it more expensive for employers to hire the very graduates needed to deliver net zero, growth and infrastructure renewal.

The Environmental Industries Association (EIA) today warns that rising employment taxes are actively locking graduates out of work at the exact moment the UK faces a deepening green skills shortage. While ministers talk up green jobs and economic growth, environmental services and clean technology businesses say higher Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) are forcing them to pause recruitment, delay graduate intakes and rethink entry‑level roles.

Graduate unemployment rising – despite skills shortages

The unemployment rate for recent graduates has risen to around 6%, up from 5% the previous year, according to the latest Higher Education Statistics Agency and Department for Education data. This comes against a backdrop of an overall UK unemployment rate of 4.9%, indicating that graduates are finding it harder – not easier – to enter the jobs market.

This trend is particularly troubling for the environmental sector, which is facing a well‑documented and growing shortage of skilled workers. Industry analysis suggests the UK is short of around 200,000 people with green and environmental skills, a gap that threatens delivery of net‑zero targets and major infrastructure programmes.

The EIA identifies three key drivers behind rising graduate unemployment:

Rising cost of employment
From April 2025, the rate of Employer National Insurance Contributions rose from 13.8% to 15%, while the threshold at which employers begin paying NICs fell sharply from £9,100 to £5,000 per employee. Economic modelling suggests these changes could result in up to 55,000 fewer jobs nationally and a measurable increase in unemployment as firms absorb higher labour costs.
Recruitment freezes hitting SMEs hardest
Small and medium‑sized enterprises, which dominate the environmental services and clean technology sector, are particularly exposed. Surveys and labour‑market analysis show many businesses have responded to higher NICs by scaling back hiring plans, freezing graduate roles or shifting to short‑term contracts to limit employment costs.
A widening gap between skills demand and hiring capacity
While demand for green skills is accelerating, 63% of environmental professionals report a shortage of suitably skilled applicants, and financial constraints are cited as a major barrier to recruitment and training. In other words, the sector needs graduates – but is being priced out of employing them.

A policy contradiction at the heart of green growth

The warning comes despite strong evidence that green job demand is growing faster than the wider labour market. Green job adverts increased even as the overall jobs market contracted, highlighting a major missed opportunity to connect graduates with future‑facing employment.

Michael Lunn, CEO of the Environmental Industries Association, said:

“The UK is facing a clear policy contradiction. We have graduates looking for work, businesses desperate for skills, and a net‑zero agenda that depends on both – yet government policy is making it more expensive to bring them together. Rising Employer National Insurance Contributions are a direct deterrent to hiring graduates. If ministers are serious about growth, green jobs and long‑term productivity, they must reduce the cost of employment and stop pricing the next generation out of work.”

The EIA is calling on government to take urgent, targeted action:

Reduce or zero‑rate Employer NICs for graduate hires
Introduce time‑limited NICs relief for employers hiring graduates into environmental services and clean technology roles, directly lowering the cost barrier to entry‑level recruitment.
Launch a Green Graduate Employment Programme
Create a co‑funded programme to support paid graduate placements across waste, water, land based services, circular economy, climate adaptation and environmental technology businesses, sharing training costs between government and industry.
Align skills funding with real environmental sector demand
Refocus skills and innovation funding on employer‑led partnerships with universities and colleges, ensuring graduates leave with practical, job‑ready skills aligned to the fastest‑growing environmental roles.

George Eustice Urges Post‑Brexit Environmental Reset at EIA AGM

Posted on 28 April 202615 May 2026 by Michael Lunn

Former Environment Secretary argues UK must fully seize regulatory independence to deliver practical, science‑led environmental reform

Former Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Rt Hon George Eustice has delivered a robust call for regulatory reform, urging the UK to make fuller use of its post‑Brexit freedom to create environmental policy that is practical, evidence‑based and tailored to national needs.

Speaking as keynote speaker at the Environmental Industries Association (EIA) Annual General Meeting, Eustice reflected on his time in office and set out a detailed critique of what he described as the shortcomings of EU‑derived environmental legislation—alongside an ambitious vision for how the UK could do better.

Opening his address, Eustice acknowledged his long‑standing professional relationship with EIA Chief Executive Michael Lunn and former Environment Minister Rebecca Pow, highlighting their shared experience working within Defra and shaping environmental policy from the inside. He described the meeting as an opportunity to speak candidly about what had worked—and what had not—during a period of significant change in UK environmental governance.

A critique of EU environmental law

Eustice argued that much EU environmental legislation had become overly complex, litigation‑heavy and focused on “stretch targets” that were politically attractive but practically unachievable. In his view, this approach often produced ambiguous laws and slowed innovation, as regulators and industry became locked into procedural compliance rather than environmental outcomes.

“The system was not always designed to encourage creative policy‑making,” he suggested, pointing to examples where inflexible directives limited the UK’s ability to respond to local environmental challenges with proportionate solutions.

The Environment Act and a new UK framework

Central to his speech was the UK’s post‑Brexit approach to environmental protection, primarily established through the Environment Act. Eustice described the Act as an attempt to create an agile, science‑led framework—one that would allow policy to evolve over time through evidence, iteration and practical experience.

Rather than relying on composite targets, particularly in areas such as water quality, he said the UK had deliberately moved toward long‑term, achievable goals that could be measured transparently and delivered incrementally. This, he argued, represented a fundamental break from the EU model.

He also addressed the establishment of the Office for Environmental Protection (OEP), designed as an independent watchdog to hold government to account. While supporting its core purpose, Eustice expressed concern that in its early stages the OEP had focused too heavily on legacy EU targets that he regarded as unrealistic and misaligned with the UK’s new framework.

Reforms on waste, air, habitats and chemicals

Eustice went on to outline a series of policy reforms initiated during his time at Defra, many of which he felt had been misunderstood or only partially implemented.

On the circular economy, he highlighted the introduction of powers for Extended Producer Responsibility and Deposit Return Schemes, aimed at boosting recycling rates, improving consistency in waste collections and shifting responsibility upstream toward producers.

Addressing air quality, Eustice defended the decision not to adopt the World Health Organization’s stricter PM2.5 targets, citing concerns over achievability, transboundary pollution and the political reality of measures that would require radical changes in domestic behaviour. He emphasised the role of electric vehicle adoption as a more realistic driver of long‑term improvement.

On habitat regulations, he described existing rules as duplicative and, at times, counterproductive—particularly when they blocked developments that could result in net environmental gains. His proposed solution was a consolidated, UK‑specific legal framework to replace overlapping regimes.

He also reflected on stalled plans to reform chemicals and pesticides regulation, including efforts to accelerate approval processes for biological pesticides and redesign the UK’s version of REACH. These initiatives, he noted, had largely been paused by subsequent administrations.

Regulatory capacity and water quality

Eustice was particularly critical of the erosion of expertise within environmental arms‑length bodies. He described a paused proposal to break up the Environment Agency, create a standalone Floods Agency and merge remaining regulatory functions with Natural England into a single environmental regulator. Loss of specialist capability, he argued, was now contributing to chronic delays in decision‑making.

On water quality, he stressed that government had committed £83 billion to reduce harm from storm overflows well before the issue became a dominant political flashpoint, framing it as an example of long‑term planning overtaken by public controversy.

Q&A: frustration and cautious optimism

During the Q&A session, Eustice voiced frustration that the UK often continues to align with EU environmental demands rather than exercising its full regulatory independence. He also highlighted the persistent tension in building regulations between energy efficiency and health outcomes—particularly indoor air quality—which he felt remained under‑prioritised.

Despite his critiques, Eustice struck an optimistic tone on the future of Net Zero, predicting that progress would continue largely due to corporate leadership and energy security pressures, regardless of political rhetoric.

His address left delegates with a clear message: the opportunity for a more effective UK environmental framework exists—but only if policymakers are willing to fully embrace it.

For more information on the work of the EIA or to join our growing community email: Membership@EIAssociation.co.uk

Government’s EV Tax Plans Risk Undermining Air Quality Progress

Posted on 26 November 202526 November 2025 by Michael Lunn

The Environmental Industries Association (EIA) has issued its response to the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget, highlighting mixed signals for the UK’s environmental ambitions. While the government has pledged significant investment in infrastructure and housing, concerns remain over measures that could slow the transition to cleaner transport.

Electric Vehicles and Air Quality

The Chancellor confirmed a new Electric Vehicle Excise Duty, introducing a 3p-per-mile charge for battery electric cars and 1.5p for plug-in hybrids from April 2028, alongside existing Vehicle Excise Duty. Although intended to address falling fuel duty revenues and fund road maintenance, the Office for Budget Responsibility warns this could result in 440,000 fewer EV sales by 2030, undermining efforts to cut emissions and improve air quality. Environmental campaigners have called the move “premature,” stressing that incentives, not penalties, drive adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

Air pollution remains the UK’s largest environmental health risk, linked to 28,000–36,000 premature deaths annually and costing the NHS an estimated £1.6 billion between 2017 and 2025.

Jim Mills, Chair of EIA’s Air Quality Working Group, said:

“Introducing taxes on electric vehicles without a clear plan to reinvest in clean transport risks reversing decades of progress. Air pollution remains the UK’s most significant environmental threat to public health. Fiscal policy should accelerate—not obstruct—the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

The Environmental Industries Association believes this initiative will do little to address the air quality crisis. It requires urgent reconsideration. With the new vehicle excise duty and now a proposed per-mile charge, running many EVs could soon cost more than operating large diesel cars. That is counterproductive and makes no sense.

Water and Environmental Infrastructure

The Budget aligns with Ofwat’s recently approved £104 billion water infrastructure upgrade, aimed at reducing sewage spills by 50%, building new reservoirs, and improving river health. These measures will enhance resilience against climate change and support biodiversity, while creating thousands of skilled jobs.

Brownfield Remediation and Housing

Government plans to accelerate housing delivery include renewed support for brownfield-first development, backed by remediation funding programmes and tax relief consultations. Unlocking contaminated land for housing could deliver over 1.4 million homes, reducing pressure on greenfield sites and contributing to net-zero goals.

Infrastructure Investment

The Chancellor reaffirmed a £120 billion capital investment commitment for roads, rail, and energy, alongside planning reforms to fast-track nationally significant projects. These steps aim to stimulate growth and modernise the UK’s built environment, with a strong emphasis on decarbonisation and regional development.

Peter Atchison, Chairman of the Environmental Industries Association, said:

“Today’s Budget is a tale of two priorities. On one hand, we welcome the scale of investment in water infrastructure, brownfield regeneration, and housing – these are critical for sustainable growth and environmental protection. On the other, the introduction of a mileage-based tax on electric vehicles risks slowing the UK’s clean transport transition and jeopardising air quality improvements. Government must ensure that fiscal measures do not undermine climate commitments or public health. The EIA stands ready to work with policymakers to deliver joined-up solutions that balance revenue needs with environmental progress.”

Call for Action

The EIA will continue to engage with the government on these matters and continue to campaign to increase funding for green industries and technologies. “We urge the Chancellor to consider the long-term benefits of investing in our environment. Sustainable growth is not just an option; it is a necessity for our future,” Atchison concluded.

For further information, please contact: Environmental Industries Association news@EIAssociation.co.uk

Environmental Industries Association Calls for Safe and Compliant Decommissioning of Liquid Fuel Storage Tanks Amid Net Zero Transition

Posted on 21 October 202521 October 2025 by Michael Lunn

London, 21 October 2025. The Environmental Industries Association (EIA) is calling for urgent attention to safe and compliant decommissioning of liquid fuel storage tanks as the UK accelerates its transition to low-carbon heating. With the Government banning the sale of fossil-fuelled boilers from 2026, an estimated three million domestic oil tanks and hundreds of thousands of commercial tanks will need to be decommissioned over the next decade.

Industry forecasts suggest that up to 300,000 domestic tanks per year could require removal between 2026 and 2035, alongside thousands of large-scale commercial installations. This represents one of the most significant infrastructure changes in the heating sector in modern times.

Compliance and Safety Are Critical
Under the Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001, the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and related legislation, improper tank removal can lead to severe environmental contamination and legal penalties. Domestic tanks—typically 1,000 to 5,000 litres and often made from polyethylene—require different handling compared to commercial tanks, which can hold several million litres and involve complex pipework and bunded steel construction.

Key Requirements Include:

Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) before work begins.
Removal of residual fuel by a licensed waste carrier with an ADR-certified driver.
Issuance of Gas-Free Certificates after degassing tanks to below 10% of the Lower Explosive Limit (LEL).
Proper disposal of contaminated polyethylene tanks at licensed hazardous waste facilities.
Full documentation, including Duty of Care Waste Transfer Notes, Hot Work Permits, and Completion Certificates.

Bruce Woodal, Founding Member of the Fuel Experts Association, said:
“The scale of tank decommissioning over the next decade is unprecedented. Every uplift, every cut, every disposal must be done by the book. This isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting our environment and ensuring the safety of those carrying out the work. Cutting corners is not an option.”

Michael Lunn, CEO of the Environmental Industries Association, added:
“As the UK accelerates towards Net Zero, the environmental sector has a critical role in managing the legacy of fossil fuel infrastructure. The EIA is committed to supporting best practice, providing guidance, and working with regulators to ensure that tank decommissioning is carried out safely, legally, and sustainably.”

For more information on technical guidance, including OFTEC TI/133 and TI/134, and the full list of applicable legislation see below.

Documentation and Record Keeping

The following documentation should be maintained for each decommissioning project:

Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS)
• Permit to Work (including Hot Work and Confined Space permits)
• Gas-Free Certificates (valid for 24 hours)
• Duty of Care Waste Transfer Notes / Hazardous Waste Consignment Notes
• ADR Driver and Vehicle Certification
• Insurance and Lifting Plan (where applicable)
• Site Clearance / Completion Certificate

Applicable Legislation and Standards

Control of Pollution (Oil Storage) (England) Regulations 2001
• Environmental Protection Act 1990
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 2002
• Confined Spaces Regulations 1997
• BS EN 60079-10-1: Explosive Atmospheres
• OFTEC Technical Information TI/133 – Decommissioning of Oil Storage Tanks
• OFTEC Technical Information TI/134 – Removal of Domestic Oil Storage Tanks
• BS 7121 – Code of Practice for Safe Use of Cranes

Party Conference Season 2025: What It Means for the Environmental Sector

Posted on 9 October 20259 October 2025 by Michael Lunn

As the dust settles on the 2025 Party Conference season, the Environmental Industries Association (EIA) has closely monitored the major announcements, debates, and policy shifts across the four leading political parties—Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK. With a general election still 4 years away, this year’s conferences offered a revealing glimpse into the environmental priorities shaping the UK’s political landscape.

“Party conference season is always useful to ascertain trends and political thinking and where policy intervention is needed over the coming 12 months,” said Michael Lunn, CEO of EIA. “It’s a vital moment for our sector to understand how each party is positioning itself on the environment, infrastructure, and economic growth.”

Labour: National Renewal Through Green Growth

Labour’s conference in Liverpool was framed around “national renewal,” with Prime Minister Keir Starmer invoking the legacy of post-war reconstruction. The party’s environmental and economic agenda focused on:

Clean Energy by 2030: A bold commitment to 100% clean energy, reaffirmed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, alongside support for nuclear projects like Sizewell C.
Nature Recovery & Water Reform: DEFRA Secretary Emma Reynolds announced criminal penalties for polluting water companies and banned executive bonuses linked to pollution.
Housing & Planning: A £39bn New Towns programme aims to deliver 1.5 million homes, with planning reform to accelerate approvals.
PFAS & Air Quality: Fringe events spotlighted chemical pollution and air quality, with calls for urgent regulatory reform and stronger public health protections.
Green Prosperity: Labour scaled back its original £28bn/year green investment pledge to £24bn over the Parliament, sparking debate over public vs private financing.

Labour’s approach blends industrial strategy with environmental ambition, though critics—including Greenpeace and WWF—warned of gaps in nature protection.

Conservatives: Climate Reset and Economic Pragmatism

The Conservative Party, under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership, took a dramatic turn by pledging to repeal the Climate Change Act 2008, effectively dismantling the UK’s legal commitment to net zero by 2050. Key themes included:

Net Zero Scepticism: Badenoch framed net zero as economically damaging, proposing a “proper strategy” focused on affordability and reliability.
Fossil Fuel Expansion: Plans to increase North Sea oil and gas extraction and end EV mandates and heat pump subsidies.
Green Gas & Infrastructure: Fringe panels explored green gas and clean energy infrastructure as alternatives to traditional fossil fuels.
Apprenticeships Over University: Doubling the apprenticeship budget and cutting low-return university courses to align skills with employment.
Nature Restoration: Despite the climate rollback, some voices within the party—like Michael Gove—advocated using Brexit to restore British nature.

The Conservatives’ pivot away from net zero has drawn sharp criticism from environmental groups and former party leaders, raising concerns about investment certainty and international credibility.

Liberal Democrats: A Roadmap for Sustainability

At their Bournemouth conference, the Liberal Democrats unveiled Policy Paper 160: “For People, For Planet”, outlining a comprehensive environmental strategy:

Climate, Nature & Resilience Roadmap: A cross-departmental plan with a new Chief Secretary for Sustainability in the Treasury.
Energy Decarbonisation: Targeting 95% clean power by 2030, with support for modular nuclear reactors and community energy.
Just Transition: Empowering local councils and supporting North Sea communities in the shift away from fossil fuels.
Green Jobs & Skills: Expansion of green apprenticeships and a zero-carbon skills strategy.
Adaptation & Agriculture: Investment in flood resilience and a £1bn/year boost to ELMS.

While the Lib Dems lacked detailed positions on brownfield development and air quality, their holistic approach to climate and nature policy was well-received by stakeholders.

Reform UK: Anti-Net Zero and Brownfield Focus

Reform UK’s Birmingham conference reinforced its anti-Net Zero stance, positioning climate action as economically harmful. Key proposals included:

Scrapping Net Zero: Repealing the 2050 target and cutting all related subsidies.
Fossil Fuel Expansion: Fast-tracking oil, gas, fracking, and clean coal projects.
Brownfield Development: Tax incentives and “loose-fit planning” to accelerate housing on previously developed land.
Modular Construction: Emphasis on innovation to reduce waste and improve building efficiency.

Reform UK’s environmental platform has been widely criticised, with independent analysis warning of job losses, GDP decline, and higher energy bills if renewables are abandoned.

Conclusion: Diverging Paths Ahead

The 2025 Party Conference season revealed stark contrasts in environmental policy across the political spectrum. Labour and the Liberal Democrats are doubling down on green growth and resilience, while the Conservatives and Reform UK are rethinking—or outright rejecting—net zero commitments.

For EIA members, these developments underscore the importance of continued engagement with policymakers, especially ahead of the Autumn Budget and the next general election. The environmental sector must remain vigilant, proactive, and united in advocating for sustainable, science-based policy that supports both the planet and the economy.

ALL EIA MEMBERS HAVE A MORE COMPREHENSIVE BRIEFING SENT TO THEM COVERING ALL MAJOR POLICY ANNOUNCEMENTS.

The Invisible Threat: Air Quality and Health

Posted on 29 August 202529 August 2025 by Alisonadmin

Air quality is a critical issue, hitting deprived communities the hardest. These areas often find themselves near industrial zones and busy roads, lacking the green infrastructure that could naturally clean the air. This unfortunate reality places a disproportionate health burden on residents already facing socioeconomic challenges.

The health consequences are severe and far-reaching. Respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are rampant, with air pollution worsening conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) and other toxic gases such as Nitrogen Dioxide and Ozone can trigger heart attacks and strokes, leaving these communities highly vulnerable. Children and the elderly are particularly susceptible, experiencing higher rates of respiratory infections and reduced lung function.

Beyond immediate physical ailments, air pollution has insidious neurological and developmental impacts. Research links long-term exposure to cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia in older adults. For children, it can impair cognitive development and academic performance. Pregnant women in polluted areas face higher risks of adverse birth outcomes like low birth weight and preterm births, with potential lifelong health implications for the child. Additionally, certain pollutants are carcinogenic, contributing to lung cancer, and have been linked to diabetes, weakened immune systems, and reproductive problems.

Effectively combating this invisible threat demands a multi-pronged approach, beginning with better monitoring and data collection. Official monitoring stations provide valuable regional data but often miss the hyper-local pollution hotspots prevalent in deprived communities. This is where low-cost sensors can prove invaluable. These affordable, easily deployable devices offer granular, real-time data at a neighbourhood level, empowering communities to understand and advocate for cleaner air. Complementing these ground-level efforts are satellite monitoring and sophisticated atmospheric models, which provide a broader perspective, identifying large-scale pollution patterns and even predicting future trends. This comprehensive data picture highlights areas most in need of intervention.

Addressing the issue also requires robust policy and infrastructure changes. Urban planning must be re-evaluated to prevent the placement of polluting industries near residential areas, especially in vulnerable communities. Investing in green infrastructure, such as parks and tree-lined streets, acts as natural air filters. Expanding and improving public transportation networks reduces reliance on private vehicles, cutting emissions. Crucially, stricter emission standards for industries and vehicles are essential to reduce the overall pollutant load.

Technological advancements also offer promising solutions. The transition to electric vehicles, supported by widespread charging infrastructure, is vital. Industries must be incentivised and regulated to adopt advanced pollution control technologies. Smart city solutions, like intelligent traffic management systems, can optimise traffic flow and reduce idling emissions. At a household level, providing access to air purifiers and optimal ventilation can offer immediate, though often temporary, relief from indoor air pollution.

Behavioural changes and community engagement are equally important. Educating the public about air pollution risks and promoting sustainable living practices, like walking, cycling, and public transport fosters environmental responsibility. Empowering communities to participate in air quality monitoring and decision making ensures solutions are tailored to their specific needs. Healthcare providers also play a crucial role in advising patients on minimising exposure and managing pollution-related health conditions.

The ESS Expo featuring AQE (Air Quality & Emissions), taking place in Birmingham, UK, on September 17th and 18th, 2025, offers a significant opportunity to explore many of these solutions. This leading exhibition and conference for environmental services and strategies brings together experts from various sectors. Attendees can expect to see innovations in air quality monitoring technology, learn about sustainable urban development best practices, and discover new approaches to waste management – all contributing to better air quality. The expo will feature exhibitors showcasing solutions for reducing industrial emissions, improving vehicle efficiency, and developing green infrastructure. Conference sessions will cover environmental policy, public health implications of pollution, and community engagement strategies. For those interested in environmental management and its impact on public health, especially in vulnerable communities, the ESS Expo in Birmingham will be a valuable platform for networking, learning, and collaborating on actionable solutions. Registration is free.

"Ultimately, clean air is a fundamental human right, not a luxury. Its provision must be equitable, ensuring no community is disproportionately burdened by pollution. Addressing this moral imperative will lead to healthier individuals and more resilient communities for generations to come".

Jim Mills, Managing Director, Scotswolds, and Air & Emissions Ambassador at ESS Expo 2025

Jim is Managing Director of Scotswolds and a long-standing specialist in air quality monitoring and environmental instrumentation. Originally trained as an industrial chemist and chemical engineer in Paisley, Scotland, he began his career in optical spectroscopy before founding ETI Ltd. in 1992, which grew to become the UK’s largest air quality monitoring company. This was later sold as part of EMC Group Ltd. in 2001. He went on to co-found Air Monitors Ltd. in 2002, establishing it as a UK and European leader in monitoring technologies before selling to ACOEM Group in 2019.

Now leading Scotswolds, Jim focuses on the design, deployment and quality assurance of sensor networks to improve access to air quality information. He is a founder member and director of the Environmental Industries Association (EIA Ltd), chairs its Air Quality working group, and acts as its Scottish lead. He also sits on the air quality working group of Environmental Protection Scotland (EPS), supporting efforts toward a cleaner and healthier environment. For the past several years, he has chaired the scientific committee of the UK’s largest air quality and emissions conference and exhibition, AQE, helping to shape the national agenda on air pollution.

Jim Mills is a Founding Member, Director and Air Quality Chair of the Environmental Industries Association. Jim is acting as the Air & Emissions Ambassador at ESS Expo 2025, taking place from 17-18^th September 2025 at the Birmingham NEC.

Visit our stand at AQE - P100.

A Treaty in Tatters – Why the Plastics Treaty Failed and What It Means for UK Industry

Posted on 18 August 202520 August 2025 by Alisonadmin

The collapse of the UN Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva marks a critical failure in the global fight against plastic pollution. As Co-Chair of the Environmental Industries Association (EIA) Climate Change Group, I am deeply concerned by the lack of progress and the implications this has for the UK’s environmental leadership and industrial innovation. In my previous role as Environment Minister I was on the front line of negotiations back in 2024 and the UK was a key player in a group of over 80 countries pushing for high ambition for this treaty which included setting targets to cap production with the ultimate aim of reducing harm form plastic pollution by 2040 . However, despite extra time being given for the negotiations, a year on, the talks are in tatters and the consequences are serious.

The treaty was designed to be the first legally binding international agreement to address plastic pollution across its entire lifecycle—from production to disposal. It aimed to:

Cap global plastic production
Phase out toxic chemicals in plastics
Promote sustainable design and circular economy models
Standardise Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies globally

Instead, the negotiations ended in stalemate, with petrochemical-producing nations—such as Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the U.S.—blocking consensus and pushing for a diluted treaty focused solely on waste management.

Michael Lunn, CEO of the Environmental Industries Association, voiced his disappointment:
“This treaty was our best chance to create a unified global framework to curb plastic pollution. Its failure is a setback not just for the environment, but for UK businesses striving to innovate in sustainable materials and circular economy models.”

The Scale of the Crisis

The statistics are sobering:

Global plastic waste generation has surged to 360 million metric tons per year, projected to double by 2040.
Globally over half of all plastic waste ends up in landfill.
The UK alone produces over 5 million tonnes of plastic annually, with only 9% effectively recycled.
One of EIA’s Members has quoted that Microplastics have been found in 100% of UK canal sediment samples they have analysed, by EIA Member SOCOTEC UK & Ireland report “Building Trust for a Safer and Sustainable World”
The economic cost of plastic pollution is estimated at £2.5 trillion annually, with losses in fisheries, tourism, agriculture, and healthcare
The plastics industry is projected to consume 20% of global oil and contribute 15% of global carbon emissions by 2050.

‘A recent report in The Lancet medical journal stated that “plastics are a grave, growing, and under-recognised danger to human and planetary health”. Writing ahead of the Geneva summit, the University of Edinburgh’s Cat Acheson, Alice Street and Rob Ralston, warned: “Plastics, the evidence shows, are a threat to human health – from womb to grave. They’re linked to miscarriages, birth defects, heart disease and cancer.”’

The report highlights that more than 16,000 chemicals are used in plastic, many of which are not disclosed by the companies making it. Of the 16,000 chemicals safety data is lacking on over 10,000 and 4,200 are known to be chemicals of concern.

Environmental Industries Association (EIA) Member Paul Walker, Senior Technical & Development Specialist who contributed to Building Trust for a Safer and Sustainable World, (SOCOTEC UK & Ireland) who also sits on BSI EH4 Committee – focusing on British Standards in soil, highlights the alarming scale of microplastic contamination:

“Our monitoring shows microplastics are now present in every environmental matrix we test—air, water, sediment. The sheer ubiquity is staggering. We’re finding particles in places once thought pristine. This isn’t just pollution—it’s infiltration.”

British Standards committees are important in informing future plastics policy. The committee, operating under the water standards criterion EH/3/6 and EH/3/2 UK input into the global microplastics work programme. The committee focuses on developing robust, scientifically sound standards for detecting and monitoring microplastics in various water sources—including domestic water, freshwater, seawater, treated and untreated wastewater. These standards are essential for improving accuracy and reliability in sampling methods and enabling long-term environmental monitoring. They also ensure consistency and comparability across organizations and countries and as such the committee plays a key role in supporting policy development and water treatment innovation. All of this is vital to forging a sustainable way forward in our plastic world.

Why the Treaty Failed

The breakdown stemmed from irreconcilable differences over ambition. While nearly 90 countries supported production caps and chemical bans, a small bloc of oil-producing nations refused to compromise. The consensus-based negotiation model allowed any country to veto progress, and that power was used repeatedly to stall meaningful action.

Implications for UK Industry

UK businesses have invested heavily in sustainable alternatives, recycling infrastructure, and product redesigns. As Waste and Recycling Minister I oversaw the introduction of the 5p carrier bag charge which saw a 97% drop in plastic carrier bag use. A ban on a wide range of single use plastics was also introduced from plastic cups, to balloon sticks and stirrers; legislation was also passed banning microplastics in wash off care and cosmetic products and in wet wipes. And crucially the new Extended Producer responsibility scheme is focussing on packaging initially as this is the largest source of plastic. It is aimed at reducing the overall amount of plastic coming to market in the UK and instilling greater emphasis on longer life, reuse and recyclability. So, some major strides have been made in the UK but there is so much more to do and this issue needs a global approach in order to be meaningful.

Without a unified global framework, these efforts risk being undermined by inconsistent standards and continued market dominance of cheap, fossil-based plastics.

As Michael Lunn noted,
“UK companies are ready to lead the transition to a circular plastics economy. But they need clarity, consistency, and global cooperation to thrive.”

EIA’s Next Steps

Despite the treaty’s failure, the EIA is not standing still. We are launching a renewed strategy to:

Strengthen domestic legislation: Advocate for stricter UK laws on plastic production and chemical safety.
Support innovation: Partner with industry to accelerate development of non-toxic, reusable, and recyclable materials.
Build coalitions: Work with like-minded nations to form a “coalition of the willing” that implements treaty elements at national and regional levels.
Empower communities: Promote indigenous and frontline community-led solutions to plastic pollution.
Hold polluters accountable: Push for mandatory EPR schemes and transparency in plastic supply chains.

A Call to Action

It is critical that we do not let this failure stall our momentum. The UK must continue to lead by example, pushing for ambitious national policies and working with like-minded nations to build a coalition for action.

The plastics treaty may be in tatters, but the fight against plastic pollution is far from over. The EIA calls on policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society to redouble efforts. We need stronger domestic legislation, incentives for sustainable innovation, and international partnerships that bypass obstruction and deliver real change.

Let this be a turning point—not of despair, but of determination.

Blog Post by Rebecca Pow, Co-Chair of the EIA Climate Change Group, and former DEFRA Environment Minister

EIA responds to Spending Review

Posted on 12 June 202512 June 2025 by Michael Lunn

EIA Raises Concerns Over DEFRA Cuts and Potential Delays to Environmental Permitting

London, 12 June 2025 — The Environment Industries Association (EIA) today voiced serious concerns over the implications of recent funding decisions for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), warning that budget cuts could lead to further delays in environmental permitting and licensing processes managed by the Environment Agency.

Following the Chancellor’s Spending Review announcement yesterday, the EIA policy team have been closely analysing the details behind the headline figures. While the review outlines long-term investments in infrastructure—including rail, nuclear, carbon capture, NHS, and housing—these projects are unlikely to deliver immediate economic growth. This concern is underscored by today’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) report showing a 0.3% contraction in the UK’s economy.

Michael Lunn, CEO to the Environmental Industries Association stated “While we welcome the government’s commitment to long-term infrastructure, the lack of short-term support for business and specifically the Environmental Services and Technology Sector and continued constraints on specialist environmental consultancy spending are troubling”.

“The Chancellor is clearly banking on future growth, but the timeline for returns is uncertain—and the risk of further tax measures in the Autumn Budget remain high”.

Buried within the 128-page Spending Review document, the EIA has identified specific concerns regarding DEFRA’s financial settlement. Although DEFRA is set to receive £7.4 billion in total funding by 2028–29, and £16 billion in capital funding over the review period (representing an average real-terms growth rate of 2.5% per year), this comes with a mandate to deliver at least 5% in savings and efficiencies during Phase 2 of the review.

These savings include £144 million in technical efficiencies identified through the Zero-Based Review (ZBR), and a shift toward increasing in-house digital capabilities to reduce reliance on external contractors. While digital transformation is welcome, the EIA warns that such measures must not come at the expense of timely and effective environmental regulation.

To meet these financial targets, DEFRA will explore a range of cost-saving measures, including the integration of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. With rapid advancements in AI capabilities, the department is assessing which operational workloads—such as data entry, support services, analytical functions, and communication roles—could be enhanced or replaced by automation.

AI systems offer significant potential to improve efficiency through faster data processing, streamlined communication, and reduced administrative overheads. Technologies such as AI-native languages, including Gibber Link, enable machines to exchange and interpret data at unprecedented speeds, offering a transformative opportunity for internal operations.

While AI cannot replace all human-led tasks—particularly those requiring in-person research and fieldwork—it can support the department by accelerating data interpretation and publication, ultimately reducing wage costs and enhancing service delivery.

In parallel, DEFRA is reviewing its permitting and licensing frameworks. Many current processes are seen as overly complex and time-consuming. By redesigning these systems, the department aims to reduce administrative burdens, improve user accessibility, and lower operational costs.

However, DEFRA acknowledges the potential risks associated with regulatory relaxation. Looser controls could lead to increased environmental degradation, including higher emissions, waste, and habitat destruction. The department remains committed to balancing efficiency with its core mission: protecting green spaces, promoting soil health, supporting agricultural productivity, and conserving wildlife.

Peter Atchison, Chair of the Remediation of Land Working Group stated that “Delays in permitting and licensing not only hinder environmental protection but also stall investment and innovation in the green economy. We urge the government to ensure that cost-cutting within DEFRA does not compromise the Environment Agency’s ability to deliver on its critical responsibilities.”

The EIA will continue to monitor developments and engage with DEFRA and other stakeholders to advocate for a balanced approach that supports both fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship.

Flood Defence Funding

The government has committed £4.2 billion in Total Departmental Expenditure Limit (TDEL) over the period 2026–27 to 2028–29 specifically for flood defence infrastructure.
This represents a 5% annual increase in the flood defence budget, aimed at protecting communities across England from increasing flood risks due to climate change and extreme weather events.

Nature-Based Solutions and Reservoirs

While there is no direct mention of new reservoir construction in the Spending Review, the funding strategy includes nature-based solutions that may indirectly support water storage and flood mitigation.
DEFRA’s broader capital funding of £16 billion over the review period includes investments in sustainable farming, nature recovery, and environmental resilience, which are often linked to catchment-based flood management and wetland restoration.

DEFRA Operational Budget

Despite capital investment increases, DEFRA’s day-to-day spending will decrease in real terms—from £4.8 billion in 2025–26 to £4.7 billion by 2028–29, a 2.7% annual reduction.
This may place pressure on staffing and operational delivery, even as capital projects expand.

But there were some winners:

The government will invest in the critical national infrastructure needed to connect this country‘s cities and towns. The settlement will provide £10.2 billion for rail enhancements (excluding HS2) over Phase 2, including:

£3.5 billion to drive delivery of the TransPennine Route Upgrade, improving connectivity and reducing journey times between Manchester and Leeds, from 55 to 41 minutes. This will be delivered by the early 2030s;
Continued delivery of East-West Rail with £2.5 billion investment to provide new connectivity and unlocking growth across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor;
£300 million for rail investment in Wales, including for the Burns Review stations, North Wales Level Crossing, Padeswood Sidings and Cardiff West Junction. This SR and the upcoming 10-year Infrastructure Strategy will recognise Wales’ long-term infrastructure needs and will deliver at least £445 million of rail enhancements to realise them;
Funding to progress the next stage of Midlands Rail Hub West, strengthening connections from Birmingham across the West Midlands and to other regions.
£25.3 billion is provided under this settlement to progress delivery of HS2 from Birmingham Curzon Street to London Euston. This funding will support the full reset of the HS2 programme under the leadership of the new Chief Executive, addressing longstanding delivery challenges.

Angela Rayner’s department emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Spending Review, despite a challenging fiscal environment:

Capital Investment:
The department secured £39 billion in grants over the next 10 years to support new housing developments. This funding will be distributed among local authorities, private developers, and housing associations to accelerate housebuilding and regeneration efforts. However, with the current skills shortages the delivery of spades in the ground will be challenged in the short term.
Day-to-Day Spending:
Despite the capital boost, the department faces average annual cuts of 1.4% in its day-to-day operational budget from 2025–26 to 2028–29. The total settlement for this period is £16.7 billion
Policy Focus:
The funding is intended to support Rayner’s ambitions to revitalise local communities, expand affordable housing, and devolve more powers to local governments. However, the operational cuts may challenge the delivery of frontline services unless offset by efficiency gains. This may lead to Councils turning to the need to uplift their local Council precepts to balance Council budgets.

Local Government and Devolution

The Spending Review includes a renewed focus on regional rebalancing, with significant infrastructure investments directed toward Northern and the Midlands regions.
Local transport projects, such as tram expansions in Manchester and Birmingham and upgrades to the Tyne and Wear Metro, are part of a broader strategy to stimulate regional growth

Sunil Shah, Chair of the EIA Sustainable Buildings Working Group said

“We welcome the Government’s £13.2 billion commitment to home decarbonisation through the fully funded Warm Homes Plan”

This initiative represents a vital step forward in delivering warmer, more energy-efficient homes, reducing household bills, and addressing the climate crisis. Last week’s announcement that all new homes in England will be equipped with renewable energy as standard was a significant milestone. Yesterday’s announcement builds on that momentum, offering much-needed certainty for both industry and consumers.

By supporting the rollout of low-carbon technologies, including retrofitting, the Warm Homes Plan will help accelerate the UK’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future. We look forward to reviewing the full details of the plan in due course.”

Jim Mills, Chair of the EIA Air Quality Working Group expressed disappointment that Air Quality did not feature significantly with only one mention, however, that was in the context of agricultural impacts presumably linked to methane emissions.

For more information please contact:

Environment Industries Association (EIA)
Membership@EIAssociation.co.uk
www.EIAssociation.co.uk

Environmental Industries Association | LinkedIn

EIA Launches New Working Group on Environmental Noise

Posted on 5 June 202511 June 2025 by Michael Lunn

London, UK – 5 June 2025 – The Environmental Industries Association (EIA), the leading voice for the UK’s environmental services technology and services sector, is proud to announce the formation of a new Environmental Noise Working Group. This initiative underscores the EIA’s commitment to addressing the growing challenges and opportunities surrounding environmental noise pollution across the UK.

The Environmental Noise Working Group will bring together experts from industry, academia, and government to explore innovative solutions, influence policy, and promote best practices in noise measurement, assessment, mitigation, and regulation. With urbanisation, infrastructure development, and transportation networks expanding rapidly, the need for coordinated action on environmental noise has never been more urgent.

Key objectives of the working group include:

Policy Engagement: Collaborating with regulators and policymakers to shape effective noise control legislation and standards.
Innovation and Technology: Promoting the adoption of cutting-edge noise management, assessment and abatement technologies.
Public Awareness: Raising awareness of the health and environmental impacts of noise pollution.
Industry Collaboration: Creating a platform for EIA members to share knowledge, case studies, and technical expertise.

Giles Parker, Sound Barrier Solutions who has offered to chair the working group said “We are excited to launch this new working group at a time when environmental noise is gaining recognition as a critical public health and environmental issue,” at the EIA. “This group will play a vital role in ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of sustainable and responsible environmental management.”

The Environmental Noise Working Group will hold its inaugural meeting in next month, with participation open to all EIA members and invited guests and stakeholders.

For more information or to express interest in joining the group, please visit: https://eiassociation.co.uk/policy/environmental-noise/