Eight projects are turning old materials into innovative new products with support from the $5 million Circular Economy Investment Program.
From a robotic pallet dismantler to a food rescue mission, the successful projects pave the way towards a less-wasteful society – where waste is never wasted.
With grants of between $250,000 and $750,000 from the Queensland Government, recipients will revolutionise a range of key industries, rethinking how we handle waste and what it can be repurposed for.
By prioritising keeping materials in circulation, not only will we be reducing landfill and boosting recycling rates; we will be reducing the reliance on brand-new materials.
Acting Deputy Director-General at the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Kahil Lloyd said these projects showcase the potential to unleash economic opportunities by reducing, reusing and recycling valuable materials.
"These projects will not only help to reduce the roughly 10 million tonnes of waste produced in Queensland each year but also innovate a range of industries and support up to 72 local jobs.
"From a robotic pallet dismantler to innovative recycling approaches for mattresses, medical plastics and truck tarpaulins; these projects go beyond a one-size fits all approach to tackling waste.
"Queensland is working towards becoming a zero-waste society with ambitious targets to reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible.
"For every three jobs in landfill, there are nine jobs in recycling.
"The Queensland Government is developing a new Queensland Waste Strategy to help boost recycling and unlock economic opportunities.
"These projects are a great example of how we can support Queensland businesses and capitalise on the opportunities that come from reducing, reusing and recycling.
