"PERL addresses the FP7-REGPOT-1 call to improve the research potential of the Environmental Research Laboratory (EREL) of the National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, Region of Attica, Greece, in the fields of air pollution and hydrogen technologies. The Laboratory has achieved over the last years significant progress and growth but needs further support to undertake the required leap forward and evolve to a major R&D center. The present proposal consists of a set of coherent activities, which arise from the implementation of the EREL Action Plan, directly aiming at strengthening the research capacity of the Laboratory for successful participation in research activities at European, National and Regional level. The proposed action will be built on three solid pillars: • Research infrastructures, which includes the recruitment of expert scientific personnel, modernization of existing unique facilities and acquisition of new equipment • Strategic partnership and collaboration between EREL, renowned research entities and the industry, in key thematic priorities of the ERA and National Research Activities • Outreaching of the EREL scientific achievements and research capacities as a means of increasing visibility of the work and expanding R&D collaboration. The proposal embraces networking activities with regard to research, innovation and technology with other “excellent” research institutions in EU. Emphasis is placed on achieving strategic partnerships and establishing research staff mobility with entities from regions facing similar R&D challenges thus enhancing the European, National and regional impact of EREL activities. The successful outcome of PERL will contribute essentially towards integrating the R&D activities of EREL in the general framework of European scientific and technological cooperation in key thematic priorities. This would allow the EREL members to participate effectively in European S&T cooperation initiatives and networks."