The report outlines some practical outcomes in the areas of environmental technologies and innovation from the investment made to date by the EPA through its Science, Technology, Research and Innovation (STRIVE) programme. It also provides a roadmap showing where further progress is required nationally to meet the environmental and economic challenges ahead.

The EPA sees a strong need to continue to prioritise environmental research and innovation investment with the aim of:

• Supporting the continued development of the environmental goods and services sector; Contributing to environmental protection by delivering applicable and relevant solutions, information and knowledge; Supporting research and the integration of eco-innovation into all relevant sectors.

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Speaking at the launch, Dr Kelly said,

“While Ireland is facing unprecedented economic challenges, it is also the case that significant environmental challenges remain.  The EPA STRIVE programme addresses both sets of challenges by improving the delivery of positive environmental outcomes while fostering a strong innovation culture, particularly in the environmental technologies area.  Researchers and businesses are developing technologies that will deliver environmental benefits while improving competitiveness. We are confident that progress in this area can position Ireland at the forefront in one of the most rapidly growing international markets.”

Read the complete article here:

http://www.epa.ie/news/pr/2009/name,26319,en.html

Our opinion:

This is an interesting report on how environmental research and innovation investment can benefit our economies. This is definately worth a read.

Picture Credit: Thomas Hawk