Techniques developed by researchers at Queen Mary University of London and Imperial College London could help provide raw materials needed for sustainable alternatives to conventional lithium-ion batteries.

A handful of critical chemical elements, including lithium, cobalt and graphite, power rechargeable batteries at the heart of everything from mobile phones to large-scale electricity grid storage.

Demand for these essential materials is set to grow as more countries move away from fossil fuels, and so will the environmental and geopolitical impacts of their mining and disposal.

Dr Maria Crespo, lecturer in Green Energy at Queen Mary, will be exhibiting her team’s work on future batteries research at this year’s Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition, a free public festival of science held at the Society’s central London home from 2 – 7 July.​

“Moving away from fossils fuels is an essential part of any plan to transition to net zero,” Dr Crespo said.​

“However, if we continue to rely on lithium-ion batteries as the only option for fuelling our future, we are swapping one unsustainable, environmentally damaging resource for another.​

“We need to diversify our batteries, so we are not relying on one group of scarce elements for every energy storage task, and we need to think much more carefully about how we reuse our materials when their lifespan is up.”​

A 2023 review^[1] forecast that, by 2040, demand for lithium, cobalt and nickel in electric vehicle batteries would outstrip production, but that improved recycling could meet up to half the raw material demands.

Dr Crespo estimates that for the UK to meet the 2050 energy storage requirements projected by the National Grid with lithium-ion batteries alone, would require lithium equivalent to 14 times the weight of The Shard, London^[2].

But the critical elements used in lithium-ion batteries are relatively scarce. Lithium accounts for just 0.002% of the Earth’s crust and often elements like nickel and cobalt are found in geopolitically insecure regions or vulnerable ecosystems.

Last year, in collaboration with The Tyre Collective, Dr Crespo secured funds to transform particulates captured from vehicle tyres into components of sodium-ion batteries^[3], an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

To be cost effective, alternative technologies like sodium-ion batteries, which have lower gram-for-gram energy storage potential, would have to be cheaper than lithium-ion to be cost effective.

Another recently patented technique^[4] is looking at how rarely recycled nylon packaging, and other plastics, could be converted into hard carbon battery electrodes at relatively low temperatures, reducing the demand for virgin graphite.

Diversifying our battery chemistry, and the sources of raw materials, can also improve the sustainability and efficiency of lithium batteries, which will remain important for high-energy uses.

Dr Heather Au, Royal Society University Research Fellow at Imperial College London and a member of the exhibit team is researching lithium-sulfur batteries made with waste from the paper industry.

“When we need to use lithium for the large amount of energy it can store, we can replace the critical cathode materials, like cobalt and nickel, with sulfur, a cheap, abundant and non-toxic element,” Dr Au said.

“We can produce these electrodes using lignin, which is a waste product of paper manufacturing that is, currently, mostly burned for heating.

“The advantage of using our technology for lithium-sulfur systems is that they are much lighter than conventional electrodes, which could increase the gram-for-gram energy storage potential.”

Visitors to the Summer Science Exhibition will have a chance to talk to the researchers behind the work and try their hand at making batteries of their own.

1. Maisel et al. 2023 A forecast on future raw material demand and recycling potential of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. Resources, Conservation and Recycling –https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921344923000575#
2. For reaching a target of 63 GWh of battery electrical storage in 2046. National Grid Electric System Operator, 2023, FES in Five, p. 10.
3. Material Matters exhibition shows new batteries and pressure sensors developed from tyre wear particles – https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/news/6520/material-matters-exhibition-shows-new-batteries-and-pressure-sensors-developed-from-tyre-wear-particles/
4. Upcycling plastic waste into high-capacity sodium-battery anodes – https://imperial.tech/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/11601_upcycling_plastic_waste_anodes_pub_MAY24.pdf

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The company said the debt raise – alongside the firm’s existing support from Octopus Energy Generation – signals a huge vote of confidence, both domestically and internationally, from investors.

Currently, there are only 5,336 locations in the UK offering rapid and ultra-rapid charging, serving more than one million EVs.

The company is focusing on strategic placement of public chargers to make these figures work in favour of areas that currently lack the appropriate EV charging solutions.

It is focused on cementing its presence in Manchester and the North West, where it has already installed more than 600 charge points.

Asif Ghafoor, Be.EV CEO said, “The financing from NatWest and KfW IPEX-Bank serves as a huge vote of confidence in our mission to provide reliable ultra-rapid charging to communities that have been left behind by the transition to electric vehicles.

“This sizeable commitment from NatWest and KfW and the continued support from Octopus Energy Generation paves the way for future investments in the industry, which ultimately benefits the EV driving community and helps the Government’s Zero-emission-vehicles by 2035 mandate.

“It proves that investors, both domestic and international, are confident in the UK’s transition to EVs and its importance in transitioning to a net zero economy.

 “This deal was completed very quickly, which wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of our partners and advisers, who I am grateful to for their endless support in getting this landmark deal over the line.”

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Drax has reached agreement for the sale of up to 90,000 Small & Medium-sized (SME) customer meter points from Opus Energy Group Limited (Opus) to EDF Energy Customers Limited.

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Phase one of the Energy Hubs project examined the infrastructure, long-term investment, and technological innovations that will enable commercially viable and efficient energy hubs located in several key locations in Scotland, with the potential to reach 35 GW of hydrogen production capacity by 2045.

To realise this potential and capitalise on future export opportunities, the report recommends action including:

• Rapid investment targeted at next generation technologies and manufacturing processes to accelerate floating offshore wind
• Innovations in electrolyser technologies to improve the efficiency of hydrogen production while reducing system costs
• Development of highly efficient energy storage facilities with GWh capacities
• Optimising the integration of energy vectors within Energy Hubs, along with exploring further opportunities in alternative fuels and byproducts

Phase two of the project will continue to focus on the challenges of hydrogen and alternative fuels production while exploring the concept of a ‘Super Hub’. This will involve integrating several large-scale Energy Hubs to optimise their combined performance and achieve economies of scale, enhancing competitive export potential.

The Energy Hubs Project, which received funding from the Scottish Government’s Energy Transition Fund (ETF) and matched funding from industry, complements NZTC’s ‘Hydrogen Backbone Link’ project, which demonstrates the feasibility of exporting 0.9 million tonnes of hydrogen per year from Scotland to Europe via a new dedicated hydrogen pipeline. Several large-scale Energy Hubs, housing the necessary facilities for hydrogen production and its derivatives, will be crucial to the success of the Hydrogen Backbone Link.

Darren Gee, Programme Manager NZTTP at NZTC, said, “As the European hydrogen market expands, Scotland has the opportunity to establish itself as a leading producer and exporter of green hydrogen, positioning it as a major player in the future energy mix.

“The Energy Hubs project marks the formulation of an actionable plan for large-scale hydrogen production, underscoring the critical need for investment, infrastructure, and technological innovation. To address identified challenges, accelerating the development of smaller-scale projects is crucial. This approach will allow us to gain experience and establish a robust supply chain capable of supporting the pivotal large-scale projects necessary to seize this opportunity.”

The first phase of project has received support from partners including Altera, Crown Estate Scotland, EnQuest, Kellas Midstream, Port of Aberdeen, Shell, Shetland Island Council, SLB, Subsea 7, Verlume, Wood, Wood Mackenzie and Worley.

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Funded by Innovate UK under the Net Zero Mobility programme, Project Robust Emergency Services Performing Operations in Electric (RESPONSE) looks to tackle some of the barriers in blue light operations with regards to planning and dispatch systems.

Flexible Power Systems (FPS) will lead the project with support from Cenex.

FPS is developing the new platform based on its existing Operate architecture – data integration software that works with the existing ecosystem used to manage fleet operations.

For RESPONSE, Operate will investigate how digital tools and artificial intelligence can be applied to emergency dispatch systems to better accommodate zero emission response vehicles.

Based in the UK and Holland, the participating partners sharing information about the operations of their current systems include NHS England, Southwest Police Service, Kent Police and Essex Police, and Ambulancezorg Nederland, the Dutch Ambulance association.

About 1,000 zero-emission emergency vehicles are now in operation, according to a recent Gridserve Freedom of Information (FOI) request sent to police, fire and ambulance services.

Michael Ayres, managing director of FPS, said, “The electrification of emergency services vehicles presents the biggest challenge yet in the decarbonisation of transport.

“The complexities of assessing the correct vehicle to dispatch are myriad for the operator. We’re very proud that Cenex chose us to deliver this crucial service.”

Dr Peter Speers, principal technical specialist at Cenex, said, “Project RESPONSE offers an exciting opportunity to utilise our extensive experience in supporting emergency fleets and apply it to the development of zero-emission emergency service operations.

“With our deep understanding of vehicle technology and fleet operations, we are committed to maximising efficiency and ensuring the seamless integration of sustainable practices into emergency service operations.”

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O-I Glass and GridBeyond plan to implement a groundbreaking battery storage solution at O-I’s Alloa, UK facility. The innovative 8MW battery system and supporting energy management system (EMS) leverages artificial intelligence to significantly enhance energy efficiency, resilience and sustainability.

“Our energy strategy is grounded in resilience, innovation, and transformation, to embrace cutting-edge solutions that are scalable and sustainable,” said Randy Burns, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer for O-I.

By strategically charging and discharging the battery based on grid conditions, GridBeyond’s AI-powered system helps to stabilise the local electricity grid during peak periods, increases O-I’s resilience against brownouts, and improves the grid’s efficiency and sustainability. It allows charging during times of high renewable energy availability and discharging energy to the site at peak hours of demand. With this approach, O-I is projected to conserve up to 240 tons of CO₂ emissions annually at the Alloa facility once the project is operational.

The sophisticated battery management algorithm also helps to maintain a smaller overall footprint of the grid as it smooths out the load during peak hours.

In addition, the battery system will increase power resiliency at the Alloa plant by balancing voltage dips on site and helping to prevent production equipment from tripping out.

“We are supporting O-I’s global sustainability strategy by leveraging localized product and process innovations to transform our operations,” said Jim Rankine, O-I’s UK Managing Director. “From our use of second-generation biofuels, derived entirely from renewable waste materials to leveraging AI to maximise energy efficiency, we are taking a holistic approach to achieving balance across our stakeholder ecosystem.”

“Through its AI platform, GridBeyond is a key player in supporting businesses’ energy transition and helping to deliver net zero. We are extremely proud of working with O-I and use our expertise to support the company to deliver a sustainable future,” commented Michael Phelan, CEO at GridBeyond.

As part of O-I’s vision to be the most sustainable, and chosen, supplier of brand-building packaging, the company aims to reduce GHG emissions by 25% by 2030. To learn more about O-I’s sustainable packaging for wine and its global vision for sustainability, visit the company’s website.

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Angus Webb (pictured above), CEO of Dynamon, said the company’s ZERO software will ensure operators will be able to confidently put e-HGVs on the road and not only replace diesel, but do so within acceptable operational, cost and scheduling parameters.

The eFREIGHT 2030 project is intended to demonstrate what electric HGVs can do in real world conditions by taking on roles that diesel trucks usually complete and illustrating a business case for their use, as well providing a publicly accessible network of 1MW eHGV charging hubs across the country.

Funded by the Department for Transport in partnership with Innovate UK, the £63 million trial involves a consortium of fleet operators including retailer Marks & Spencer, vehicle manufacturers DAF Trucks, Renault Trucks and Scania Trucks, with charging infrastructure providers Voltempo Group and Fleete Group.

Dynamon is providing the software which will allow all other partners to put the right components in place over the next 18 months before the on-the-road trials begin, including installing chargepoints in the correct place, choosing the right tractors and trailers, planning routes and identifying suitable work schedules.

Webb said, “This isn’t about giving electric HGVs easy routes and light schedules for demonstration purposes, it is about stress testing them in hard working environments in which they will have to deliver results.

“The trial will prove what happens when you max out e-HGVs on a daily basis.”

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Several factors, including a substantial uptick in the take-up of electric vehicles over the coming years are expected to put significant pressures on connections, both for at-home charging and out-of-home charging stations. At the same time, an increasing number of facilities with substantial power demands, such as data centres and battery storage facilities, are set to come online in the coming years.

As a result, many new connections are needed across the country, along with many hundreds of miles of power lines and associated infrastructure. This infrastructure must pass over and under numerous plots of land, owned by a similarly large number of businesses and individuals and with various usage restrictions, putting significant pressure on Designated Network Operators (DNOs) to ensure they have detailed and up-to-date information about land ownerships and rights

Tony Pratt, Head of Technical Services at TerraQuest, said, “Both long-distance high voltage power lines and short-distance infrastructure for new grid connections require the acquisition of, and new rights to be established, over land and, frequently, the use of Compulsory Acquisition powers. Obtaining these rights means having a comprehensive and up-to-date record of land ownership and any associated restrictions.”

He said that while HM Land Registry in principle holds a full record of land ownership in the UK, a single check at the start of a project is unlikely to be sufficient in the context of complex multi-year projects, where land ownership can change frequently and even be ambiguous or disputed.

“Land referencing needs to be an active and ongoing process, involving detailed research into the ownership and restrictions on the use of all land involved in a project,” added Tony.

“Without comprehensive and up-to-date intelligence about the status of land potentially affected by a project, there is a real risk of unnecessary delays in acquiring or gaining rights over land. When multiplied by potentially many hundreds of plots of land, the prospects of encountering costly issues rises substantially. This is a significant area of risk, given the urgent need to increase the speed of delivery of new grid connections.

“A comprehensive and detailed approach to land referencing, undertaken by specialist researchers is vital in ensuring upgraded grid infrastructure and connections are delivered as soon as possible.”

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Nuada, a UK-based carbon capture technology provider, has announced the launch of its pilot plant operation at Buzzi Unicem’s cement facility in Monselice, Italy. Buzzi, an Italian cement company with global operations, is trialling Nuada’s advanced carbon capture technology as a solution to produce low-carbon cement, leading the way in cement industry decarbonisation.

This pilot project marks a milestone in carbon capture innovation demonstrating the performance of Nuada’s next-generation technology within a cement manufacturing setting Nuada has developed an energy-efficient carbon capture solution by combining advanced solid sorbents named Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) with a mature vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) process. This innovative, electrically powered system separates CO₂ from industrial flue gases using pressure instead of heat and offers a promising approach to overcoming the energy, cost, and integration challenges associated with deploying traditional carbon capture solutions in industry.

“We are deploying the most energy-efficient carbon capture technology developed to date, a solution that redefines the decarbonisation landscape for hard-to-abate sectors like cement,” said Dr. Conor Hamill, Co-CEO of Nuada. Dr. Jose Casaban, Co-CEO of Nuada added “This plant demonstrates the robustness, scalability and game-changing benefits of our innovative capture system. Together with Buzzi, we are demonstrating the future of carbon capture in cement.”

This MOF-based VPSA carbon capture plant is fully operational now, capturing 1 tonne of CO₂ per day from cement flue gas. The project is backed by the Global Concrete and Cement Association (GCCA) and was initiated through GCCA’s Innovandi Open Challenge programme, an initiative that fosters collaborations between major cement producers and innovative technology providers to decarbonise cement production. The cement sector currently accounts for 7% of global carbon emissions, and according to the GCCA’s Net Zero Roadmap, carbon capture is the main decarbonisation lever.

“Our company has always been at the forefront of technology and search for innovative solutions” said Luigi Buzzi, CTO at Buzzi. “We are excited to host Nuada’s advanced carbon capture technology and start the pilot test campaign in Monselice: we look forward to confirm the high expectations that Nuada technology can play a leading role in the cement industry’s decarbonization journey”

Buzzi confirms his willingness to delve deeper into this and other technical issues, to raise awareness among the community of the efforts made towards the ambitious goal of Net Zero, i.e. carbon neutrality, set for 2050.

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The Enviro400EVs, in the livery of the Harrogate Bus Company, are fitted with roof-mounted charging rails to allow their 472kWh batteries be topped up by pantograph during layovers at Harrogate bus station.

Any need for additional energy for the 27-mile route, will be kept to a minimum due to the Enviro400EV’s driveline powered by the heavy-duty Voith Electrical Drive System.

Features include bespoke flooring, USB and wireless mobile device charging and audio-visual passenger information systems including displays facing the two wheelchair bays.

In addition, seats are arranged in a 2+1 pattern on the upper deck, with reclining single seats angled inwards alongside expanded window ledges and armrests.

Transdev Blazefield received funding for the purchase from the first round of the UK Government’s Zero-Emission Bus Regional Areas scheme (ZEBRA 1), via its partner North Yorkshire Council.

Henri Rohard, Transdev Blazefield Managing Director, said, “We are delighted to be working with Alexander Dennis on the next generation of the 36.

“This service has a special place in Transdev Blazefield network. I believe that the configuration considered in this bus is the best available and integrates all the latest innovation that we could think of. The design has been considered to improve our passenger comfort, safety, and accessibility.

“We will continue to integrate after the launch, additional features to further boost the quality of our passenger and driver on board information. We are looking forward to welcoming these buses into our fleet in the coming months.”

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But when we recently surveyed 500 businesses across Europe, only 22% said they have good control of their energy consumption, and only 14% said they have good control when it comes to staying resilient against energy market volatility. This is having a significant impact: 40% said that unpredictable energy costs are limiting their organisation’s growth trajectory.

A range of factors are at play. A tough macroeconomic environment is creating uncertainty over energy cost and supply. Ongoing regulatory changes are proving difficult to keep up with. The distanced post-pandemic workplace is making it harder to track and respond to energy demands. Growing pressure from stakeholders to decarbonise means organisations need to reevaluate the energy spectrum from the ground up.

Amid so much complexity – what steps are organisations taking to strengthen control of energy?

Our research found that there are three key focus areas:

• Organisations with greater confidence in their data deal better with energy management overall. Our results show that data leaders are more likely (by 27 percentage points) to feel they have good control over their energy consumption, compared with those with little confidence in their energy data.
• Onsite energy generation is proving a popular way to mitigate volatility. Two-fifths of the businesses we spoke to said the appeal of onsite generation was in its ability to mitigate volatility in the market. It’s easy to see why 63% of businesses said they intend to increase onsite generation capabilities over the next two years.
• Uninformed leaders are struggling to make the right investment decisions. Ineffective financial assessment frameworks are the number one factor delaying onsite generation. Re-education and reengagement of leadership is critical.

It all adds up to the need for a more assertive approach – one that’s focused on regaining control over an organisation’s energy costs and long-term sustainability.

To help you build the business case for a new strategy, download our report ‘How data, onsite generation and leadership strengthen energy control’. Inside you’ll find more information and recommendations on how to transition energy from a cost centre that drags on business growth to a resource that propels it.

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My name is Zoë, I am 28 years old working as an Engineering Project Manager and living in London.

How long have you been doing your current job and what does it involve on a day to day basis?

I have been in my current role since February 2023 where I undertake project management responsibilities on a hospital decarbonisation construction project.

One of the aspects I love most about my role is the variety in my day-to-day work. No day is the same. Some days, I focus on writing reports and preparing documentation, while other days I am on-site, gaining hands-on experience, conducting safety inspections and observing the project’s progress. My weeks typically start off by gathering the team together to liaise and manage the delivery of the project with the client, ensuring we are on track with timelines and deliverables, complying with health and safety regulations and meeting financial targets.

In addition, I manage the solar photovoltaic works and lead a team, directly overseeing project delivery.

What do you love about it?

Without a doubt, my favourite aspect of the role is the people I get to work alongside. Large-scale construction projects require extensive planning, communication and teamwork. I take pride in managing a team where everyone has the same goals and is passionate about finding sustainable solutions, contributing to ecological transformation and combating climate change. I also love mentoring other strong, influential women and demonstrating what is possible.

At Veolia, the significance of my work extends far beyond the construction site. Each project contributes to a sustainable, net-zero future and it is a privilege to be part of a company that is actively shaping a better world for generations to come. In my role, I’m encouraged to bring new innovative ideas to the table to find the best solutions for our clients, which is something I love.

The feeling of reward and accomplishment once a project is complete is fantastic. We work in a high-pressure, demanding industry where the ability to learn and adapt quickly is crucial. However, with the right people and a strong team around you, the results can be exceptional.

What are the challenges?

Working in construction and project management can be challenging as we rely on various parties such as subcontractors and in-house teams, to deliver our products and services. When issues arise, we must react swiftly to resolve them. For large-scale projects like hospitals, which are part of the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS), adhering to timelines and budgets is crucial. Additionally, our projects often have higher upfront costs, so it is essential to demonstrate the return on investment, both in financial terms and carbon savings.

Did you always want to be an engineer? Why? Did you have any role models? What inspired you?

From the age of 17, I knew I wanted to be an engineer. It all started during a summer trip to a country in the Middle East, where I witnessed incredible innovations through the use of solar panels and new technology. Seeing such creative solutions to critical problems ignited a passion in me for engineering that has never waned.

Throughout my engineering journey, I found inspiration in the achievements of women like Dr. Frances Arnold, a chemical engineer and Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry. Her work in directed evolution has paved the way for sustainable solutions in various fields. Dr. Arnold’s perseverance and groundbreaking contributions have shown me that women can lead and innovate at the highest levels in engineering, reinforcing my determination to make a difference in my field.

While my path has been shaped by patience, grit and determination, I hope to serve as a role model for the next generation of women engineers, proving that with passion and resilience, we can achieve remarkable things.

What path did you take to being an engineer? Where did you study and what (and where) have been the stepping stones to get you where you are?

I was born and raised in Fulham, London and I moved to the United States with my family at the age of 15. The move was both exciting and daunting due to the different education system and environment. However, the flexibility of the courses in high school allowed me to explore my interests, something I am now very grateful for.

After high school, I studied environmental engineering and political science at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. I expanded my engineering skill set while also gaining knowledge in urban planning, construction management, and environmental policy. In my third year, I secured an internship at a construction company in Chicago. This experience sparked my interest in environmentally conscious construction and provided a clear vision for my future career path.

Upon graduating from university in 2018, I moved to Washington, DC to work as an engineer at a construction company. There, I was given the responsibility to manage tasks independently and learn on the job which allowed me to hone my problem-solving and project management skills, fueling a passion that kept me in the role for three years and provided valuable experience.

Despite my passion for the work, the lack of sustainable opportunities at the time led me to pursue a Masters of Environmental Policy and Regulation at the London School of Economics in 2021 to further equip myself with skills for future opportunities. Upon completing my Masters, I was on a mission to find a role where I could blend my engineering expertise with my newfound insights to make a real environmental impact.

I was immediately drawn in by Veolia’s environmental credentials and how they wanted to make a positive impact with the work they do. Veolia’s Energy Construction Projects team is a relatively new team and there are so many decarbonisation projects in the pipeline. I look forward to growing within the industry and sharing my journey with my fellow team members.

Has it been challenging to be a woman in engineering? 

Many women have made significant contributions to engineering and efforts are underway to promote gender diversity, inclusivity and support systems for women in these fields which is why I love initiatives such as IWED.

There are still lingering stereotypes and biases that portray engineering as a male-dominated field, which can discourage some women from considering or persisting in these careers. I think it is important to have role models and guidance and I really enjoy seeing young women come into the industry where I can teach and encourage them so I would recommend a mentor to anyone!

When did you join Veolia?

I joined Veolia in February 2023 and have not looked back since.

Why should women consider an engineering or construction career?

While the engineering and construction fields have historically been male-dominated, the world is moving forward and increasing diversity and inclusion in engineering and construction can lead to more innovative and effective solutions, benefiting society as a whole.

Engineering careers offer intellectually stimulating and challenging work opportunities.You have to apply problem-solving skills, creativity and analytical thinking to design and build innovative solutions that improve people’s lives and shape the world around us.

I particularly enjoy the opportunities for innovation and working with a hands-on leadership approach, seeing tangible results with an end goal to work towards. The skills learnt in engineering and construction roles are valuable and transferable in any professional setting, meaning you really are future proofing your capabilities and growing on the job.

What benefits do days such as International Women in Engineering Day have?

Days such as International Women in Engineering Day have an amazing impact on my industry and create awareness for the fantastic work we do, as well as highlighting the opportunities moving forward. The world of work is vastly different to what it was 20 years ago and IWED gives us a real platform to highlight the positive changes that have been made through the efforts of strong, influential women with a desire to succeed. IWED is incredibly important to tackle stereotypes, pioneer change and break down barriers, opening minds to a career in engineering.

Networking and mentorship opportunities are also created as these events often provide opportunities for women engineers to connect, network and share experiences. They can facilitate mentorship relationships, which can be valuable for career development and overcoming challenges faced by women in male-dominated fields. I encourage all women, just getting started or vastly experienced, to take a look at the roles available and get involved with open days, webinars and workshops to learn more about how engineering can be your next adventure.

Advice and top tips from Zoe:

• Take the time to explore the wide array of engineering disciplines and career paths available. Engage in courses, internships and hands-on experiences to gain insights into different specialties. Engineering offers a multitude of opportunities, so don’t hesitate to delve into various fields to find the one that resonates most with you.

• Often with engineering and construction, the learning extends beyond the classroom. Never hesitate to seek clarification or guidance by asking questions, even as you gain experience in your career.

• Find mentors who can offer guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career. A mentor can provide valuable insights, help you set goals and offer perspective from their own experiences in the industry.

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ClientEarth lawyers say that the judgment “changes the game” for Scope 3 emissions – those that are created by use of a company’s products.

Currently, these ‘downstream’ emissions are not required to be considered in planning decisions across the UK.

But the judge who drafted the majority opinion, Lord Leggatt, said that it was clear that oil from the wells would be burned, making the resulting greenhouse emissions “straightforwardly results of the project” – and that they should be considered in planning approvals.

ClientEarth lawyer Sophie Marjanac said, “This ruling adopts a sensible approach to the law governing environmental impact assessment, and aligns the UK with international law and practice. This clear decision from the UK Supreme Court changes the game for planning decisions: it irons out expectations, making it clear that companies and authorities have to account for downstream emissions – those that don’t come directly out of on-site operations, but are a guaranteed result of oil extraction.”

Earlier this year, an international legal tribunal, ITLOS, confirmed in an Advisory Opinion that states everywhere should be considering cumulative and indirect impacts in Environmental Impact Assessment decisions for new industrial and construction projects – and applying a “stringent” standard to their decisions.

Today’s decision follows a similar decision of the Norwegian Courts in January, and is in line with EU law.

Marjanac said, “We are finally reaching a tipping point where countries and companies are going to have to comprehensively account for the impact of every fossil fuel project on the climate – and use that information to start to prevent it.

“This news has implications for ongoing UK challenges – including the proposed Cumbria coalmine, Rosebank oil and gas exploration, North Sea oil and gas licensing and others. Meanwhile, we are making similar arguments in other cases in the EU.

“The UK is notoriously not on track to meet its climate targets, and campaigners at all levels are hard at work to fight for a future that we can all live in. This judgment is a legal triumph and we congratulate everybody who worked towards it.”

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Currently the electrical infrastructure in the South West is sparse, with Cornwall Council estimating that there are about 450 EV charging points in the county.

The partnership is set to boost the number of charging points by about 60%, installing rapid and ultra-rapid units across the region.

St Austell Brewery has more than160 pubs in its estate and a leading wholesale business across the region.

Committed to achieving net zero emissions across its operations by 2040, the company has already upgraded its company car fleet and installed EV chargers for employees driving hybrid or electric vehicles across all its head offices.

Paul Hine, Supply Chain Director, St Austell Brewery said, “We have a proud history of innovation so working with ScottishPower to install electric car chargers was a great way to prepare our pubs for an electric future. For us, going greener makes good business sense.

“We know that investing in this green tech will help us reduce our carbon footprint and thanks to ScottishPower we have been able to do this at scale.”

Andrew Mouat, Head of Smart Mobility at ScottishPower, said: “At ScottishPower, we want to help businesses integrate green tech into their operations to allow their customers to live a more sustainable lifestyle while creating a new revenue stream.

“We help business leaders find the best chargers for their carparks, manage and cover the cost of installation, and service the units for the term of the contract.”

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NewPower, which has moved into a factory in Bicester, Oxfordshire, aims to accelerate the decarbonisation process by swapping powertrains in older fleets at a substantially lower price than buying a new bus.

Wrightbus will utilise the skills of its 1,800-strong workforce, including master technicians, to carry out the work.

Hailed as affordable decarbonisation, it is hoped that operators with mid-life bus fleets but without the funding for new zero-emission buses can take advantage of the instant sustainability switch.

Engineers say the conversion can take three weeks and have space for teams to work on six buses at any one time, offering the potential to decarbonise 500 buses a year.

Initially creating 22 jobs but with 65 staff expected on site by the end of the year, the announcement from Wrightbus follows a record-breaking start to 2024 which has seen the Northern Ireland business named as the fastest-growing large manufacturer in the UK and the fastest-growing bus-maker in Europe.

Jean-Marc Gales, Wrightbus CEO said, “While we are selling new hydrogen and battery-electric buses all over the world there is a huge market of mid-life buses which, once converted, can have an immediate impact on helping to improve air quality in towns and cities up and down the UK.

“We have long been recognised as the world-leading manufacturer of both hydrogen and battery-electric buses and now NewPower will add another string to our bow.”

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