Institute seeks new Trustees

The Thames Gateway Institute for Sustainability is looking to appoint seven private sector Trustees to its Board.  Appointed Trustees will spearhead a new approach to emerging technologies and markets to ensure that the UK is well positioned to deliver solutions for a sustainable future.

Executives will be drawn from a range of sectors including energy, environment, waste, construction or design and will be required to commit two days per month to provide the leadership and expertise to ensure the Institute improves efficiency, reduces environmental impact, explores renewable energy sources, and better energy management.

Malcolm Grant, Provost of University College London and interim Chair for the Institute, said: "This is an exciting new venture, with backing from the highest levels in Government.  With a sister institute in Shanghai and extensive networks spanning private, public and academic sectors, we are exceptionally well positioned to drive a step change in sustainability research and development.

"We're looking for those individuals with the right skill set and experience to provide the leadership to make this happen."

The Prime Minister launched the concept of the Institute when he was in China in early 2008.  It is a centre of excellence for independent sustainability research, demonstration and knowledge dissemination.  It brings together world-leading experts from academia and business to conduct collaborative research to create a better environment for our future and will play a vital role in delivering the vision of the Thames Gateway to become the world's first eco-region.

With strong financial backing and commitments of £12m revenue and £14m capital over the next three years, along with funding for the Institute's research and demonstration projects, the Institute is attracting significant interest.  The Institute is already working in partnership with several major players including Akzo Nobel (ICI), Veolia, ProLogis, Arup, VTT (Finland), Pilkington, University College London, Imperial College London, SEEDA and LTGDC.  Its offices are currently being set up in Dartford and Central London with plans underway for a new £40m Research Centre in east London.