CLEANER fuels could make a 'small but significant contribution' to improving air quality in the UK, but they are not the 'complete answer', according to a new report. 'Cleaner Air: the Role for Cleaner Fuels' was launched at a London symposium last week and was commissioned by the National Society for Clean Air and Environmental Protection.

The report admits that air quality is expected to improve substantially due to changes in vehicle technology and fuel quality and it says that cleaner fuels - petrol, diesel and gaseous road fuels - could prove 'an additional bonus' in the battle to meet tough 2005 UK National Air Quality Strategy targets. But, the report says that for a real impact on local air quality more than half the fuels used in an area would have to be cleaner grades.

However, the report says: 'Cleaner fuels are likely to remain a niche market unless additional tax incentives are provided by Government, or unless their use is encouraged or mandated locally. Fuel retailers, motor manufacturers, local authorities, public transport and fleet operators should co-operate to facilitate the targeting, supply and use of cleaner fuels in those areas of poor air quality where their environmental and health benefits can be maximised.'