The Morrison Government is backing a major recycling project in Dobell, as part of our ongoing effort to grow the economy and help the environment.
IQ RENEW will receive $2,999,220 to develop a template for upgrading existing Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) to Smart Material Recovery Facilities (SMRFs) by introducing Internet of Things (IoT) automation and trial it in an existing MRF, aiming to increase post-consumer soft plastics recycling by 80 times 2018 levels delivering process engineered feedstock integrated with industry. It will address the waste export ban and contribute to Australia’s transition to a circular economy.
SMRFs utilise the CurbCycle Solution for household segregation and collection of soft plastics. The solution will deliver efficient product stewardship and a rewarding community engagement tool. It enhances existing recycling infrastructure that may be used to lift recycling rates on other materials.
Senator for New South Wales Jim Molan said the successful project demonstrated the innovation on display in Dobell.
“This collaborative project has the potential to make a real difference on a national stage, while also helping a local business commercialise their great idea,” Senator Molan said.
“This is further proof of the cutting-edge work happening right here in Dobell and the Morrison Government is here to back it.”
Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said the projects demonstrate the great industry opportunities that come from taking care of the environment.
“By strategically investing in our waste management and recycling sector, we’re supporting Australian manufacturers to develop and commercialise cutting-edge technology that creates opportunities for new jobs and exports,” Minister Andrews said.
“We know strong collaboration between industry and researchers is key to creating a resilient, competitive and highly skilled manufacturing sector and that’s exactly what these CRC-P grants are going to do.”
Waste Recycling and Clean Energy is one of six National Manufacturing Priorities in the Government’s Modern Manufacturing Strategy.
All up nine projects worth $40 million are being supported under round 10 of the CRC-P initiative.
The projects involve 32 Australian companies, including 27 small and medium businesses. Of the companies, approximately 20 per cent are located in regional areas.