Centre of Excellence develops microbes that turns waste into biofuels and other products
Centre of Excellence develops microbes that turns waste into biofuels and other products
3 November 2022
Centre of Excellence develops microbes that turns waste into biofuels and other products
Australian Research Council (ARC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Judi Zielke PSM today welcomed the launch of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology, which is pioneering new microbes to turn biological waste to biofuels, bio plastics and other useful products.
The Centre, which is led by Macquarie University, was officially launched today by the Hon Ed Husic MP, Minister for Industry and Science.
With $35 million in funding through the ARC, the Centre is engineering new microbes to convert biomass from agriculture or waste to biofuels and other high-value chemicals.
“The ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology is doing vitally important work through the use of new microbes to turn waste into fuel and bioplastics, which will mean a more sustainable environment for all Australians,” Ms Zielke said.
“The production and use of biofuels also helps reduce the carbon footprint of transportation and other industries that rely on fuel.”
It is projected that by 2025 biochemical and biofuel will be a $1.4 trillion global industry.
“The Centre’s contribution to building a biomanufacturing industry in Australia will increase rural employment and investment, and strengthen Australia's economy,” Ms Zielke said.
The ARC Centres of Excellence scheme is one of the ARC’s largest and most distinguished schemes.
The ARC Centres of Excellence are national scale focal points of research excellence, through which high calibre researchers collaborate to deliver and deepen research.
“The ARC Centre of Excellence in Synthetic Biology will also play a key role in developing the next generation of researchers,” Ms Zielke said.
Media contact:
ARC Communications 0412 623 056 or communications@arc.gov.au