UK and China collaborate for low carbon development

Representatives from the UK and China signed the memorandum of understanding earlier this week at a meeting in London, which was witnessed by Minister of State for Climate Change, Greg Barker.

Under the agreement, the UK and China will each commit £10 million of matched resources over the next three years, with approximately £6.6 million available each year.

"This latest agreement addresses how to develop new low carbon methods of manufacturing, urban living and energy production. Meeting the needs of industry and consumers, while reducing the demands humankind places on the environment, are similar challenges for both China and the UK. International collaborations like these bring the best academic talents together to find the solutions that can benefit all,” said Professor David Delpy, a signatory to the agreement.

Welcoming the programme, Greg Barker said: "I am very pleased to witness the next stage of this ambitious programme. Investing in innovation and science is essential for both the UK and China to address energy supply issues and meet emissions targets, as well as drive long-term economic growth. In the UK we have ring-fenced a science budget worth £4.6 billion per year, and invested £29 million in joint projects with China."