AI-powered digital transformation for the smart circular economy

Start year: 2024

Summary: This program will produce next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) graduates who will facilitate development of new knowledge, skills and tools to drive creation of a smart circular economy in Australia in general, with a focus on regional, rural and remote areas. The shift to a more circular economy is urgently needed to enable more efficient and effective use of resources, minimise waste, and ensure resource security. We will train a cohort of research students who will work with industry partners to apply AI and other next generation digital technologies to develop enabling capability and embed circular economy practices within regional economies. The program will specifically target AI-powered solutions to enable development and uptake of circular business models, and to optimise circular infrastructure, using the NSW Northern Rivers as a model region. A total of 6 PhD and 9 Masters/Honours coursework students from diverse backgrounds will work collaboratively with industry under guidance from Southern Cross University and University of Technology, Sydney, researchers who together bring multidisciplinary expertise in AI, business, and engineering needed to address this complex problem. This will develop the next generation of leaders with the skills, knowledge and industry focus to enable the transition to a circular economy.

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.