Countdown to AQE Expo 2026: The Future of Air Quality and Emissions Management

With just two weeks to go until the doors open at the NEC Birmingham, the countdown to AQE Expo 2026 is officially on. Scheduled for 16–17 September, the event is set to bring together the brightest minds in environmental protection, emissions engineering, and public health policy.

Building on the success of 2025—which saw nearly 3,000 professionals converge to discuss the most pressing environmental challenges—this year’s installment promises an even deeper dive into the technologies and regulatory frameworks defining the sector.

Industry Expertise at the Forefront

The 2026 speaker programme is a major draw for attendees, featuring a series of high-level sessions led by policymakers, regulators, and technical specialists. These sessions are designed to move beyond theory, offering actionable intelligence for professionals navigating a complex legislative landscape.

Key agenda highlights include:

• Regulatory Evolution: A deep dive into the 2026 revisions of ISO14001, presented by ISEP.
• Net Zero Strategies: Expert discussions on “Wet Zero” and the protection of indoor air quality, led by the Indoor Air Aware and the Environmental Industries Association.
• Public Health: A critical session on air pollution as the greatest environmental risk to health, featuring insights from the Greater London Authority, the Clean Air Fund, and the University of Southampton.
• Local Accountability: Examining the mechanisms local government can employ to ensure air quality standards, presented by Gloucester City Council.

Innovation on the Show Floor

Beyond the seminars, AQE Expo 2026 will host over 45 specialist suppliers, transforming the NEC Birmingham into a hub of technological innovation. Visitors can explore a comprehensive array of solutions, including:

• Advanced ambient and indoor air monitoring systems.
• Cutting-edge emissions reduction technologies.
• Specialized dust, noise, and odour management tools.
• Innovations in emissions reporting and carbon market compliance.

Confirmed exhibitors include industry leaders such as Turnkey Instruments, AirSENCE, Cura Terrae, Nosmotech, and NPL, offering attendees a unique opportunity to interface directly with the developers behind the latest environmental hardware and software.

Networking and Professional Development

The event, held as part of the broader ESS Expo, provides a platform for collaboration that extends well beyond the exhibition floor. The 2026 edition introduces a dedicated Careers Fair, bridging the gap between established industry employers and the next generation of environmental talent.

Furthermore, the evening will feature the prestigious Environmental Monitoring & Measurement Achievement Awards (EMMAs), celebrating excellence across air, water, and land monitoring—a must-attend for those looking to stay connected with the pulse of the industry.

Join the Conversation

Environment Journal, along with our sister publication Air Quality News, will be on-site throughout the two-day event. We invite all attendees to stop by stand AQE-J16 to say hello, discuss the latest sector developments, and share your insights.

Whether you are an emissions engineer, a compliance manager, or an environmental consultant, the AQE Expo remains the premier destination for networking and professional growth.

Plan your visit today:

• Event Dates: 16–17 September 2026
• Location: NEC, Birmingham
• Registration: Secure your free ticket here

Don’t miss this opportunity to help shape the future of air quality management—we look forward to seeing you at the NEC.