Dec 2008 – Pilot Delivery of Carbon Management Plus
SQW, in partnership with Enviros, were commissioned by The Carbon Trust to refresh the Highland Council Carbon Management Plan and develop a methodology for Carbon Management Plus – a pilot programme being developed by the Carbon Trust aimed at reviewing and updating its existing carbon management procedures and tools.
Dec 2008 – The Environmental Considerations of Sustainable Economic Growth (ECOSEG)
Working for NWDA, 4NW, the Government Office for the North West, and the Environment Agency, we were commissioned to map the scope and scale of environmental resources (natural and manmade) in the North West of England, and to understand the likely impact of these on economic growth. Informed by this, we then examined four critical types of infrastructure – energy, transport, water and waste – to understand in more detail how these might limit or enhance the region’s growth relatively, as well as seeking to understand how these infrastructures would themselves be affected by growth.
The research resulted in six publications:
- Stage 1 – Environmental Capacity Themes
Nov 2008 – Using Local Fiscal Incentives to Reduce Household and Business Carbon Emissions
SQW was commissioned by the Local Government Association to explore the existing and potential range of fiscal powers available to Local Authorities and how these can be applied to achieve carbon reductions at the level of households and businesses. Council tax, business rates, parking charges, personal carbon allowances, carbon trading and a variety of grant scheme options were examined in detail. The carbon reduction impact and revenue/cost implications were established at a national (England and Wales), local authority and individual dwelling levels.
Nov 2008 – SQW delivers report on Modelling Changes to the Renewables Obligation
SQW was commissioned by the Scottish Government to model the impact of proposed changes to the Renewables Obligation on renewable energy output and carbon emissions. This work involved building an economic and environmental model of the Scottish and UK renewable energy sector, developing future energy scenarios and using the model to gauge the impact of proposed changes. The study provided quantitative analysis to support a consultation on proposed changes to the Scottish Renewables Obligation.
To read the report, click here.
Oct 2008 – Public Procurement of Innovative Science and Technology Solutions
MATRIX, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel, has published an eight-volume report on how Northern Ireland can best exploit its science and technology capabilities to ensure economic growth and wealth creation. Volume 7 of this report explores how public procurement can be used to find and implement innovative solutions to issues faced by the public sector and to support small innovative businesses in Northern Ireland at the same time, and was prepared for MATRIX by SQW in association with David Connell, and acknowledged expert on this topic. To read Volume 7, click here. The entire 8-volume report is available from the MATRIX website.
Oct 2008 – Today's Investment, Tomorrow's Asset: Skills and Employment in the Wind, Wave and Tidal Sectors
Chris Bronsdon presented the findings of SQW’s work on skills issues within the Wind, Wave and Tidal Sectors at the British Wind Energy Association’s Annual Conference and Exhibition: BWEA30 held at the ExCel Centre in London’s Docklands on Thursday 23rd October.
The report – “Today’s Investment, Tomorrow’s Asset: Skills and Employment in the Wind, Wave and Tidal Sectors” written by Patrick Bonnett, Mitra Nataraj and Grendon Thompson highlighted the future skills needs of the sector over the period to 2020 together with assessing current provision of skills relevant to the sector within the UK and identified key stakeholders and partners operating within the skills arena of potential interest to BWEA.
The report was released to coincide with the Conference. To read the report, click here.
Oct 2008 – Scoping Study for Individual Budgets for Families with Disabled Children
As part of Aiming High for Disabled Children (ANDC), the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) commissioned SQW, supported by Gerry Zarb from the Equalities and Human Rights Commission, to undertake a scoping study prior to the piloting of Individual Budgets for Families with Disabled Children. The primary purpose of the scoping study was to inform the development of the IB pilot programme.
A multi-method, iterative approach was adopted to ensure we built a comprehensive understanding of existing evidence on the effectiveness of IB and interventions of a similar nature for families with disabled children. The approach included a review of literature, and consultation with a range of stakeholders, local authorities and families with disabled children.
The research resulted in three publications:
- IB Scoping Study Main Report – which sets out the key findings of the research
- IB Scoping Study Literature Review Report – which outlines the findings from the initial literature review
- IB Scoping Study Case Study Report – which presents five of the six detailed case studies undertaken as part of the research.
Oct 2008 – Final Evaluation of Neighbourhood Management
The Department for Communities and Local Government has published the final reports from the national evaluation of the Neighbourhood Management Pathfinders. The evaluation was delivered by a team of universities and consultancies led by SQW. Undertaken from 2002 to 2008, it represents the largest study of neighbourhood management in the UK. The two main reports published were as follows:
- The Final Evaluation of the Neighbourhood Management Pathfinders – People, Places and Public Services: Making the Connections – This report draws together the six year evaluation of the 35 Neighbourhood Management Pathfinders, summarises the evidence and offers final conclusions.
- Neighbourhood Management: Beyond the Pathfinders: A National Overview – The second report looks beyond the Pathfinders at the nature and extent of neighbourhood management across England. It draws on a national survey of local authorities, an evidence review and new case studies.
A theme report on community cohesion and neighbourhood management has also been published. All of the reports of the national evaluation from the last six years can be found on the project website: http://www.sqw.co.uk/nme/
Oct 2008 – Impact of Regulation on Productivity
In Iight of HMG’s productivity commitments and the available evidence, the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), commissioned independent research to improve understanding of the impact of regulation on productivity, growth and competitiveness.
Five short projects were commissioned, covering a number of research topics including: transmission mechanisms through which regulation impacts on productivity, the impact of domestic regulation on productivity, and behavioural responses to changes in regulation. One of these studies was the SQW study, Lessons from environmental and other regulations on the role of technology, which is based on some previous case studies for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and a review of the relevant literature.
The Report is available at http://www.berr.gov.uk/files/file48147.pdf
Oct 2008 – Major Innovation Assets in the North of England
SQW was commissioned by the Northern Way to identify and review significant innovation assets across the three regions comprising the North of England – the North West, the North East, and Yorkshire & the Humber.
SQW’s work considered how these assets might be used still more effectively to drive forward innovation activity in the North, and offered practical suggestions on steps to achieve this. To read the report click here.
Sep 2008 – The Value of Carbon Abatement Technologies to UK Business
SQW, working with AEA Technology, carried out a quantitative economic analysis for the Department of Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform of the UK Carbon Abatement Technologies (CAT) sector in terms of its current value and future opportunities. The analysis was based on desktop research (literature review and data analysis) and stakeholder interviews. The results were presented to the Advisory Committee on Carbon Abatement Technologies.
Sep 2008 – Analysis of Dividends from the Big Six UK Energy Suppliers
SQW was commissioned by the Local Government Association (LGA) to review the dividends paid by the Big Six energy suppliers in the UK in 2006 and 2007. This involved analysing corporate balance sheets and business structures of some of the largest UK companies (in some cases owned by foreign entities). The research informed policy statements by the LGA on scaling up the carbon emissions reduction target scheme through greater investment from energy utilities.
Sep 2008 – The Saltire Prize
The Saltire Prize was announced as a £10M prize to promote future innovation and technological endeavour (modelled on the Ansari X Prize). The First Minister of Scottish Government announced the details of the prize in April 2008, including collaboration with the National Geographic Society on communications strategy.
SQW was commissioned to provide an outline of the conceptual issues facing the Saltire Prize which required immediate analysis and decision, and a set of actions to take the project forward. This involved development of three options for consideration by the Saltire Challenge Panel, the development of application guidelines for the chosen option and an analysis of potential economic impact of the Prize.
Sep 2008 – Broadband in the Home: An Analysis of the Financial Costs and Benefits
The Post Office has published SQW’s report examining the financial costs and benefits of broadband in the home. The research considers the costs and cash benefits to households at different income levels, from the use of broadband internet to search for, compare and purchase products and services at a more beneficial rate than is typically achieved offline. The study also highlights the less tangible, but no less real, wider benefits to the household, in terms of improved employment prospects, education, communication and entertainment, and access to public services. Overall, we estimate that the third of UK households which are not yet online are foregoing direct financial benefits of approximately £4.4 billion per annum. On average, a household’s investment in broadband internet access (including a computer) would pay for itself within about six and a half months. To read the report, click here.
Aug 2008 – Energy Tetralemma Index Study
SQW was commissioned by Forfás to develop a complex, aggregate index (the Energy Tetralemma Index) for the comparison of ten energy sources that are relevant to Ireland. The index incorporates current and future global energy data on environmental sustainability, security of supply, climate change and cost competitiveness.
Jul 2008 – Evaluation of Able to Work: Realising Potential
SQW was commissioned in May 2007 by the Department for Work and Pensions to carry out an evaluation of the Able to Work: Realising Potential Pilots which aimed to engage employers and promote recruitment opportunities for people with health conditions and disabilities. As part of the project, two sets of training events were developed, in partnership with Employers’ Forum on Disability: one aimed at Jobcentre Plus staff, and the other at employers. The events for Jobcentre Plus staff were held for staff who work with employers to help them promote the business benefits of disability confidence. ‘Disability confidence’ is a new concept developed by Employers’ Forum on Disability to define the key characteristics of a company that is getting it right on disability issues. SQW’s evaluation has been concerned with the Jobcentre Plus events, and not the Employer Engagement Events. The aim of the evaluation was to assess the success of the Jobcentre Plus staff events, specifically looking at Jobcentre Plus staff perceptions of the training process, the practical actions that follow and the extent to which Jobcentre Plus staff benefit from their participation in the programme. To read the report, click here.
Jul 2008 – Assessing the Impact of Reviews of Collaborative Arrangements on Higher Education Institutions
SQW was commissioned by the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) on behalf of the Quality Assurance Framework Review Group to undertake a review of the impacts, benefits, costs and risks associated with the various types of review of collaborative provision to which higher education institutions (HEIs) are subject. SQW found that there are many positive impacts for HEIs and their partners from the review processes associated with collaborative provision, including raising the profile of collaboration and strengthening partner relationships. Negative impacts included the number and frequency of different review processes and the overall costs associated with these, as well as the need to provide duplicate information in some cases. HEIs wanted a less burdensome approach to the review of collaborative provision and the concept of a ‘risk-based approach’ was raised, but there is no clear or consistent view across the sector on what this might comprise. The report informed the findings of phase three of the review of the Quality Assurance Framework, which was published in July 2008 and is available on the HEFCE website. To read the full report, please click here.
Jun 2008 – International Power Price Review for Ocean Energy
SQW undertook a review of international power prices on behalf of ocean energy device developer Aquamarine Power. This involved the analysis of a range of international electricity markets (at various stages of deregulation) and a review of the support available for ocean energy in a number of coastal states.
Apr 2008 – Commercial Arrangements for Small Scale Renewable and Combined Heat and Power Generators in Ireland
SQW collaborated with Cambridge Economic Policy Associates in a study for Sustainable Energy Ireland exploring regulatory and commercial barriers to small-scale renewables and combined heat and power in the Irish electricity market. An assessment was made of the level and type of intervention required to encourage the entry of small generators into the market.
Apr 2008 – Carbon Emissions Targets: Challenges and Opportunities
SQW, in conjunction with Cambridge Econometrics and AEA Energy and Environment, were asked by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) Northern Ireland to examine business opportunities and challenges presented by carbon emissions targets.
SQW led on the literature review element and on the stakeholder consultation, examining with business, sector bodies and public sector the extent and potential of the environmental goods and services sector in Northern Ireland and the potential impacts associated with emissions trading on other businesses. We built on Cambridge Econometrics’ ‘Business as Usual’ scenario projections to establish possible and appropriate policy options, which were tested with stakeholders.
Apr 2008 – Northwest Business ICT Survey 2007
The Northwest Development Agency has published the findings from a major SQW/GfK NOP study into the exploitation of Information and Communications Technology by businesses in the Northwest. Based on a series of interviews with 2,000 business users of ICT and 200 ICT suppliers in the region, the report examines differences in ICT adoption and impact between sub-regions, rural vs urban areas, sectors and different sizes of businesses. SQW presented the study findings at the Northwest Research Conference in Manchester in April 2008.To read the report, click here.
Mar 2008 – Opportunities in the Low Carbon Sectors in Emerging and High Growth Overseas Markets
SQW was commissioned by UK Trade and Investment to analyse the Carbon abatement, Renewable energy, Energy efficiency and Environmental goods and services (EGS) sectors in Australia, Brazil, China, India, South Africa, Turkey and the USA in terms of market demand, policy framework and opportunities for export and investment for UK businesses.
Publications for each of these country reports are available below:
Mar 2008 – Economic Impact of Glasgow Prestwick Airport
In March 2008, SQW’s report on the economic benefits of Glasgow Prestwick airport was launched by the Chief Executive of the airport and the First Minister, Alex Salmond. The report demonstrated the contribution that the airport makes to the Ayrshire and Scottish economy. This was not just the direct employment, but also included a survey of businesses who reported on the role that it plays in supporting their performance. This ranged from tourism, direct sales to the airport, access to markets and use of freight services. The launch of the report was covered by Scottish television and the press. To read the report, click here.
Feb 2008 – Award of North West Scholarships
Since 2003, SQW’s Manchester office has offered an annual scholarship to students undertaking postgraduate study at a North West university in an area relevant to the firm ‘s work. We are pleased to announce that two awards have been made this year, to Elise Kaye and Liam Connors, both at the University of Liverpool. Elise is studying for an MA in Geographies of Globalisation and Development and Liam for an MSc in Urban Regeneration and Management. The award includes a bursary of £1,000 to help finance their studies and the opportunity to develop links with the firm during their studies.
Jan 2008 – Analysis of HEIF 3 Institutional Plans
HEIF supports institutions to engage in a broad range of knowledge transfer activities with business, public sector and community partners, for economic and social benefit. HEFCE commissioned SQW to inform HEFCE, and other stakeholders, on the uses of HEIF 3 funds and the potential outputs. The study found that tentative conclusions could be reached about the planned use of HEIF 3 funding. The report concludes, however, that the plans were of limited value for sector-level information on activities and projected outputs. SQW separately made recommendations to HEFCE about improving the format of plans and these recommendations have fed into HEFCE’s work to develop requirements for HEIF 4 from 2008-09. To read the report, click here.
Jan 2008 – Impact Evaluation of Spinno Programme in 2001–2006
The Spinno programme, funded by the Estonian Ministry of Economic Affairs, is designed to promote knowledge exchange between universities and other organisations. In 2003, SQW undertook a mid-term review of the first round of Spinno funding and subsequently worked with the Ministry to design a process for appraising applications to the second round of funding. We were commissioned to evaluate the schemes’ operation and performance between 2001 and 2006 and to consider the implications for EU structural funds over the period 2007-2013. To read the report, click here.