An $8 million funding program will involve research projects to create a critical minerals circular economy and will support the identification, discovery and development of these minerals.
The Critical Minerals and Circular Economy Research Alliance was created through a new partnership between the Queensland Government and The University of Queensland’s (UQ) Sustainable Minerals Institute (SMI).
The Research Alliance is a key action from the $315 million Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy and will operate for the next four years.
Queensland Resources and Critical Minerals Minister, Scott Stewart, said, “We want to create a critical minerals industry where we not only mine and process the minerals here but also make the renewable technologies like solar panels and batteries by Queenslanders for Queenslanders.
“With our $315 million Queensland Critical Minerals Strategy, we’re well on our way to achieving this dream, but we can’t do it alone.
“UQ’s Sustainable Minerals Institute is world-renowned, and we want to work with their researchers to develop new ways to identify and develop critical minerals resources in Queensland.”
Mr Stewart said the research programs would also help the state go beyond just digging up minerals towards creating a truly circular economy model for the exciting new industry.
“This is about setting up the next chapter in Queensland’s resources story in a way that is efficient, sustainable and fair while securing the jobs of the future.”
UQ Vice-Chancellor, Professor Deborah Terry AC, said, “This alliance strengthens our partnership with the Queensland Department of Resources on research that will aid the development of a robust, responsible and sustainable critical minerals industry in our state.
“We have a track record of working together on projects delivering tangible outcomes, including an analysis of critical mineral recovery from mine waste at more than 35 sites, which is being used to help recover the resources to fuel the energy transition.”
SMI’s Director, Professor Rick Valenta, said, “Building a responsible critical minerals industry and robust value chain from source to product within Queensland will need enhanced efficiency and the adoption of circular economy practices. For that, we need new data, technologies, approaches, and workforce capabilities.
“We are looking forward to working with the Department of Resources as well as industry and research partners to develop innovative and clean pathways that cement Queensland as a world leader in responsible critical mineral production.”
Featured image:The University of Queensland.
