Transport emissions are still rising despite an overall decline in the UK's greenhouse gas emissions, according to figures released today.

The Environmental Accounts published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that between 1990 and 2003, total UK greenhouse gas emissions decreased 8.1 per cent to 722.3 million tonnes of CO2, down from 786.3 million.

Indeed, emissions from the transport and communication industries were 48.4 per cent higher in 2003 than in 1990.

The study measured emissions generated by UK households and companies as well as emissions from UK residents' transport and travel activities abroad, while emissions generated by non-residents' transport and travel in the UK were omitted.

The news is likely to accelerate efforts to tackle emissions, although only yesterday the Department for Trade and Industry (DTI) announced funding for innovative technology proposals delivering zero emissions inventions.

Businesses and academic bodies have been invited to apply for the £100 million in funding, which is part of the DTI's technology programme.

In line with European efforts to tackle transport emissions – as evinced by the evolution of increasingly stringent target levels in the form of the Euro IV regulations – the UK is now striving to drive down the output even further.

Platinum plays a key role in clean transport solutions, both as a catalyst in diesel emission reduction technology and for its use in fuel cells.