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Queensland and the German government have collaborated on a groundbreaking research programme with a budget of AU$3 million. The initiative aims to capitalise on the opportunities associated with transitioning to a net zero emissions economy.
This marks Queensland’s first joint venture with Germany in the field of bioeconomy research and development. The initiative is a significant step forward as it aligns with a Joint Declaration of Intent for Cooperation in Bioeconomy, signed with the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research in May 2022.
As part of the Queensland Trade and Investment Strategy 2022-2032, the Queensland Government will allocate AU$3 million over a span of three years to support this programme. Additionally, the German Government will match this contribution by providing support to relevant German research partners.
By partnering with Germany, a renowned global leader in bioeconomy research and technology, Queensland aims to advance its position on the global stage and attract investments. The initial phase of the endeavour will focus on three key areas within the bioeconomy: the creation of new materials from sustainably sourced biomass, the promotion of sustainable agriculture practices, and the reduction and repurposing of food waste.
This collaborative effort provides Queensland with an opportunity to collaborate and gain insights from Germany, benefiting from the expertise of experienced German innovators and investors. Queensland’s esteemed universities and research institutes are actively engaged in projects that tackle significant scientific challenges relevant to bioeconomy development, thereby solidifying the state’s standing in the field.
An excellent illustration of Queensland’s research efforts is the work being conducted at QUT. Their research efforts aim to assist farmers in achieving higher food yields while optimising resource usage.
They are developing crops that possess enhanced nutritional value, resilience against drought and pests, and are exploring innovative methods to convert agricultural waste into renewable fuels, chemicals, and other valuable products.
Similarly, The University of Queensland is actively involved in pioneering technologies for the production of advanced biofuels using sustainable feedstocks. Their focus lies in utilising sources such as food and industrial wastes, crop residues, and native trees to generate next-generation biofuels. Additionally, they are exploring algal systems to harness biohydrogen production.
Germany has already established itself as a significant partner for Queensland in both scientific research and business collaborations. This collaboration further strengthens the existing ties between the two regions.
The commitment of the Queensland Government to fostering a prosperous and resilient economy is evident in their efforts to address climate change and capitalise on the opportunities presented by transitioning to a net zero emissions economy, Queensland’s Minister for Environment and Science stated.
The Queensland Climate Action Plan 2030 serves as a roadmap to achieve targets of 50% renewable energy by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. Additionally, the Waste Management and Resource Recovery Strategy aims to attract investments, create new jobs, and develop industries that increase resource recovery and minimise landfill waste.
These strategic initiatives lay the foundation for a thriving bioeconomy in Queensland over the next decade. The concept of bioeconomy, which emphasises the sustainable utilisation of renewable biological resources to produce food, energy, and industrial goods, is gaining prominence among both government and business sectors.
The collaborative research program with Germany signifies an exciting advancement in Queensland’s partnership, as it allows for joint efforts in finding solutions to global challenges. Together, Queensland and Germany are working towards innovative approaches that address pressing global issues.
The Queensland Biofutures Industry Envoy and member of the International Advisory Council on Global Bioeconomy, from QUT stated that the commitment strongly resonates with the University’s worldwide partnerships, which share a common goal of substituting fossil-based feedstocks with sustainable alternatives.
Through their research, various waste streams, including food, non-food, and industrial waste, are being transformed into valuable resources. These resources encompass bioenergy, environmentally friendly chemicals for industries, livestock feed, as well as applications in health and medicine.
The University of Queensland Vice-Chancellor stated that the University’s global partnerships are closely aligned with the goal of replacing fossil-based feedstocks with sustainable alternatives.
Their research initiatives focus on the conversion of food, non-food, and industrial waste into valuable resources, including bioenergy, eco-friendly chemicals for industries, livestock feed, and applications in health and medicine.
