The programme is set to support future research surrounding net zero initiatives conducted by local organisations

Bristol Airport has announced that its new fund to support innovative research projects to help decarbonise the aviation industry is now live.

The hub’s Aviation Carbon Transition (ACT) scheme is open to any organisation or business within the southwest of England.

The £250,000 programme is set to push forward decarbonisation initiatives within the region, focussing mainly on ‘scope 3’ emissions – these are indirect and occur outside of the airport – such as from aircraft and passenger road transport.

Individual grants of up to £50,000 are expected to be given to organisations that are currently developing technology that could aid the aviation sector to reach its net zero goals.

Due to this being the fund’s first year, there is no limit on the number of applications being awarded.

The airport has specified that the contributing projects should focus on elements such as hydrogen for storage, handling and aircraft refuelling, as well as electric technology, local schemes that generate positive carbon reductions and research into new initiatives regarding environmental airside operations.

“Our region has a unique cluster of aerospace companies, expertise, and world-leading universities,” said Simon Earles, sustainability and corporate affairs director, Bristol Airport. “The ACT Programme will provide them with funding to kick-start exciting new initiatives to move aviation towards net zero, with option of the airport being available as a testbed for new technology.”

“We are committed to net zero operations by 2030 with the ACT Programme part of our efforts to work in partnership and cut emissions from flights. We’re excited to see what ideas come forward.”

The inauguration of the funding programme follows the airport’s announcement stating that it plans to achieve carbon neutrality for its own operations later this year.