Commercial cooking air quality trial

Summary The Opportunity Cost How to apply

Overview

Following a successful innovation procurement process with Westminster City Council, we are now inviting forward thinking local authorities to join the next phase of a strategically important air quality trial. This is a unique opportunity to test a transparently procured and ready to deploy, scalable air filtration system that can potentially reduce harmful pollutants, while gathering valuable, location specific data to inform future regulation and procurement.

Cooking emissions are the third-largest source of PM2.5 pollution in London, accounting for an estimated 59% of total emissions in Westminster alone. That’s more than traffic in some areas!  PM2.5 particles are tiny enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, and long-term exposure is linked to heart disease, respiratory issues, and cognitive decline.

Event

Innovation challenge masterclass: Tackling air quality From challenge to change: what local authorities can learn from Westminster’s air quality innovation journey

The opportunity

Opportunity to join a groundbreaking air quality innovation trial

Following a successful Innovation Procurement and initial trial, we are now seeking to expand the initiative to additional locations and building types. This next phase will support further research and accelerate the scale-up of a promising new technology.

After a rigorous procurement process, Westminster City Council selected an SME to pilot the solution across several restaurants this year. The results have been encouraging.

Why get involved:

Demonstrated reduction in harmful PM2.5 emissions

Proactive alignment with DEFRA, WHO, and UKHSA guidance on PM2.5 mitigation

Enhanced wellbeing for staff and patrons

Real-time air quality monitoring

Seamless integration to existing operations with minimal disruption

Confidence in a rigorous, value-driven, innovation-focused procurement process

To continue advancing this research and raise awareness of the health risks associated with PM2.5, we invite other councils to pledge support by self-funding a single trial site. Each council will be responsible for identifying a suitable location, while the trial will be supported by IPEC to ensure smooth delivery and robust outcomes.

By funding a single trial site, councils can contribute to nationally relevant evidence based research while delivering tangible local health benefits. This need not be a public restaurant—ideal alternatives include schools, colleges, or care homes with catering facilities, where improved air quality can have a meaningful impact.

Case Study

From challenge to change: Westminster's air quality innovation journey Working with the Innovation Procurement Empowerment Centre (IPEC), Westminster explored an innovative solution to reduce PM2.5 emissions and improve air quality in busy urban environments.

Estimated costs

Estimated cost: The council will need to provide funding in the region of £7,000–£10,000, depending on kitchen size. This includes:

Air filtration system

Monitoring equipment

Expert data analysis and reporting

If your council is interested in participating or would like further information, please contact [email protected].

Application process

If your council is interested in participating or would like further information, please contact [email protected]