Australia's journey toward a cleaner, more sustainable future has taken a major step forward with the launch of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Research Hub for Engineering Plants to Replace Fossil Carbon at The University of Queensland (UQ).
ARC Acting Branch Manager, Executive and Communications Bonnie Johnson speaking at the official launch of the ARC Research Hub for Engineering Plants to Replace Fossil Carbon at The University of Queensland. Image Credit: Supplied.
Officially opened on 10 November 2025 at UQ's Global Change Institute, the new Hub brings together leading researchers, industry partners, and government to explore how crops like sugarcane and sorghum can help Australia move away from fossil carbon. The goal is to transform plant biomass - often considered agricultural waste - into high-value renewable products that can power industries, create jobs and support regional communities.
A collaborative approach to a national challenge
Supported by a $4.9 million investment from the Australian Government through the ARC, the Hub is already gaining momentum. Researchers and staff from across Australia have joined the effort, with new positions filled, fieldwork underway, and the first research papers in progress. The Hub's website is now live, providing a window into the discoveries and innovations to come.
ARC Acting Branch Manager, Executive and Communications Bonnie Johnson joined university leaders, research partners, and supporters at the launch event. She highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling complex challenges:
'It's inspiring to see such a diverse group of researchers and partners working together to turn bold ideas into tangible, practical solutions. This Hub is a great example of how Australian research can drive innovation and deliver benefits for communities across the country,' Ms Johnson said.
Growing benefits for Australia
The Hub's work is set to deliver benefits well beyond the laboratory. By unlocking the potential of plant biomass, the Hub will help diversify markets, strengthen Australia's $2 billion sugarcane industry, and open up new industries and jobs - potentially more than 15,000 in regional areas by 2050.
Looking to the future
The Hub is just getting started, but its ambitions are bold: to place Australia at the forefront of sustainable innovation and help shape a future where crops are part of the climate solution.
Learn more about the ARC Research Hub for Engineering Plants to Replace Fossil Carbon and follow its progress.
