The Queensland government is partnering with Smart Precinct North Queensland (NQ) to help businesses transition toward a circular economy, aiming to achieve a “zero-waste society” by 2050. The initiative will provide information and support for local businesses to integrate circular economy principles into their operations, encouraging the reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing of materials while reducing waste. The state’s Environment Minister Leanne Linard emphasized that transitioning to a circular economy will require retaining materials in the economy for as long as possible and designing waste out of production processes and product life cycles.
In order to reach the goal of a zero-waste society, stakeholders are encouraged to look beyond recycling and focus on embedding circular economy principles into their operations. This approach not only conserves precious resources but also prevents waste from ending up in landfills, reducing the environmental impact and contributing to job creation and economic benefits. The CEO of Smart Precinct NQ, Cassandra Cazzulino, highlighted the transformative nature of the program and the unique opportunities it presents, emphasizing the importance of local implementation.
The Queensland Circular Economy (Industry-Research) program, a $4 million pilot, aims to take industry-driven research and innovation and use it to transition away from conventional “take-make-waste” practices. In addition to Smart Precinct NQ, other regional centers such as the Resources Centre of Excellence in Mackay and Agribusiness Connect in Toowoomba are also involved in the program. The construction industry’s significant contribution to waste production has led to concerns about its environmental impact and human health. However, experts believe that integrating circular economy principles into the industry’s practices can significantly enhance sustainable development goals. Through local implementation and industry-driven research, the initiative aims to create a transformative approach that will not only create a zero-waste society but also contribute to economic benefits and job creation.