Following the trial's completion, the project team will evaluate the findings and develop a business case for permanently reducing emissions at the crematorium using the most suitable technology.
Dr Kirsty Smallbone, Dean of the School of Applied Sciences at the University of Brighton, said: “Achieving net-zero is vital if we are to slow down the changes occurring in our atmosphere and to our climate. That means looking at how we can transition away from fossil fuels and make use of alternative sources like hydrogen.
"We are thrilled to be part of this pioneering initiative, working in partnership with local, national and international partners. By monitoring air quality, we can ensure that the transition to hydrogen power is not only environmentally beneficial but also maintains the highest air quality standards."
Cllr Sophie Cox, Worthing’s cabinet member for climate emergency, said: “We declared a climate emergency in 2019 and as a council we are determined to focus our efforts on finding ways to reduce our emissions and become a net zero council by 2030.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this world-leading project, which will help us and other local authorities deepen our understanding on how to use technology to reduce carbon emissions at energy-intensive buildings like crematoriums.”
Abigail Dombey, HyCrem project manager at Net Zero Associates, and who developed the original funding application said: “The transition to net zero will involve all areas of life, including how we deal with death. We need to decarbonise cremations, so it’s incredibly exciting to be part of this project which will identify how we can do so - and is even a world first.”
This project exemplifies the University of Brighton's commitment to sustainability and innovation. Our researchers are actively involved in developing solutions to tackle climate change and contribute to a greener future.
About the HyCrem Project
The HyCrem project is a collaborative effort led by FT Pipeline Systems in partnership with Worthing Borough Council. Other key partners include University of Brighton, DFW Europe, Net Zero Associates, Ricardo AEA, PJ Combustion Solutions, Abbott Risk Consulting, Safety Monitors, and GeoPura.
The project is funded with a grant of £1,168,500 awarded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero through its £55 million Industrial Fuel Switching Competition. This competition is part of the wider £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP) that supports the development and implementation of innovative low-carbon technologies and infrastructure.