Optimising Organic Waste and Cultivating Circularity for Australian Agriculture [24084]

Project Member(s): Cordell, D., Sharpe, S., Liu, A., Madden, B., Nakamichi, M., Jazbec, M., Roods, J., England, M., Barclay, K., Miyake, S., Djordjevic, S.

Funding or Partner Organisation: AgriFutures Australia RDC (AgriFutures Australia - Contract Research)
AgriFutures Australia RDC (AgriFutures Australia - Contract Research)

Start year: 2024

Summary: Following a series of workshops the Agriculture sector has identified the importance of applying a cross-sectoral lens when considering converting waste into valuable resources as a fundamental aspect of circular economy initiatives in agriculture. This would include utilisation of methods that recognise the potential of repurposing agricultural waste from one sector, into a valuable resource for another, to mitigate emissions and promote circularity. Collaboration has been recognised as a critical factor for sustainable actions which highlighted the need for rural industries to deepen their understanding of waste streams and collaborate on solutions driven by value. There is a significant knowledge gap regarding regulatory and legislative barriers hindering circular practices in agriculture. Understanding existing regulations, their implications and underlying reasons for their existence is therefore needed. This project aims to provide this resource for the rural industry, which will facilitate understanding and successful implementation of circular economy practices contributing to sustainable agriculture and resource conservation. This is based on the analysis and mapping of the challenges and opportunities associated with optimising the utilisation of organic waste in Australian agriculture.

FOR Codes: Agriculture, land and farm management, Environmental management, Management of solid waste from manufacturing activities, Development of recyclable or biodegradable componentry, packaging or materials , Agricultural chemicals not elsewhere classified, Other environmental management not elsewhere classified, Management of solid waste from plant production, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well Being, Clean Water and Sanitation, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Responsible Consumption and Production, Life on Land, Partnerships for the Goals

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.