Funding boost for next generation of engineers to help realise UK’s 2050 ‘net-zero’ greenhouse gas target

Cranfield University has announced a series of scholarships to help boost the UK’s skill base as the nation looks to achieve a government target of ‘net-zero’ greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

The scholarships worth £10,500 each are available across the whole of the University’s Energy and Power master’s portfolio and will help deliver some of the vital skills that the UK needs in order to realise its environmental ambitions.

The announcement comes during the University’s annual ‘Green Week’ celebration. ‘Green Week’ highlights the environmental achievements that the University has made in reducing its own carbon footprint and showcases to staff and students how they can help reduce further their impact on the environment.

The University has set itself one of the most challenging carbon emission reduction targets in the UK university sector. It is aiming to reduce its carbon emissions, by 50% by 2020, from its 2005 levels.

Professor Phil Hart, Director of Energy and Power at Cranfield University, said: “For the UK to hit its target of ‘net-zero’ greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, we are going to have to significantly boost the UKs skill base in areas such as renewables, carbon capture and energy supply.

“As well as the steps we are taking to reduce our own carbon footprint, these scholarships are an important part of our contribution to helping the UK achieve ‘net-zero’ by 2050, by supporting some of the UKs next generation of leading engineers and energy entrepreneurs.”

Due to an expected high demand, early applications are advised for the ‘net-zero’ scholarships. Further details of the scheme are available here.