Smart Precinct NQ to lead circular economy drive

North Queensland is set to play a leading role in Queensland’s drive to build a circular economy, according to Environment and Science Minister Leanne Linard. A new Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) Program is set to assist in the transition from a “take-make-waste” business model to a circular economy model that designs out waste and pollution, circulates products and materials at their highest value, and regenerates the environment. The State Government has earmarked Smart Precinct NQ in Townsville to become a hub for information and support for local businesses looking to embed circular economy principles into their operations. The other regional centres involved in this $4 million pilot program are the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay and Agribusiness Connect in Toowoomba. If the concept proves to be successful, it will be rolled out to other locations. “The Palaszczuk Government has set the ambitious goal of Queensland being a zero-waste society by 2050," Ms Linard said. “To achieve this, we have implemented a framework for our transition to a circular economy, where materials are retained in the economy for as long as possible at their highest practicable value. “Recycling tends to be the first strategy industry turns to when transitioning to a circular economy. “Recycling certainly has its place, but we encourage industry to also think beyond recycling and focus more on the circular economy principles of designing out waste throughout production and a product’s usable life. “We simply have to do a better job of conserving our precious resources and reducing waste to landfill. “That’s why all Australian environment ministers have committed their governments to transitioning to a circular economy by 2030." Smart Precinct NQ chief executive officer Cassandra Cazzulino said the pilot program presented a real opportunity for industry and community to activate fit-for-region, innovative, circular solutions and learnings that could be deployed globally from Queensland. "Practical implementation of a circular economy is critical if it’s to be our future and there are so many opportunities still to be uncovered," she said. "That is why Smart Precinct NQ is proud to be a supporting delivery partner to the Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) program which will help Industry and community uncover new ways of doing things, and that will be transformative." Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said embracing a circular economy was good for business as well as the environment. "For every one job in landfill there are three jobs in recycling and remanufacturing," he said. “Research indicates that a strong circular economy in Australia has the potential to generate $1,860 billion in direct economic benefits over twenty years while reducing carbon emissions. “I am keen to see Townsville and North Queensland at the forefront of this economic benefit. “I encourage local businesses to reach out to the team at Smart Precinct to see how circular economy principles could be embedded in their operations.” More information on Queensland’s Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy is available here.

Smart Precinct NQ to lead circular economy drive

Industry Queensland

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