CSIRO program for SMEs to innovate plastic waste solutions

CSIRO has announced free research and development (R&D) support to businesses working in the plastic and recycling sector. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on advanced solutions to innovate plastic waste are invited to apply for CSIRO’s free, 10-week Innovate to Grow program to support their commercial idea by building their R&D knowledge.

CSIRO has a goal to reduce 80% of plastic waste entering the Australian environment by 2030. The Ending Plastic Waste Mission is intended to support a sustainable plastics circular economy to reduce detrimental impacts to the environment, while delivering economic benefits. 

CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste Mission Lead, Dr Deborah Lau, said it’s only by bringing science and industry together that we can revolutionise plastic waste.

“Each year, 90 billion tonnes of primary materials are extracted and used globally for plastics, with only 9% recycled. This is commercially unsustainable,” she said. “It’s important we work collaboratively with SMEs and facilitate access to R&D opportunities to help accelerate scientific advancements and cutting-edge technology to address the plastic pollution problem.

“SMEs play a key role in driving Australia’s circular economy and new industries. This program will help facilitate innovation to drive future pathways for managing plastic waste.”

George Feast, Deputy Director of CSIRO’s SME Connect, encouraged SMEs to get on board by taking advantage of free expertise to help translate their ideas into viable commercial opportunities.

“R&D can be an expensive undertaking for businesses and risky for those without the right guidance and support,” he said. “To address these challenges, we’re inviting participants to come with a specific plastic or recycling idea they’d like to explore.

“Over 10 weeks CSIRO experts will guide businesses through how to refine their idea, to understand its research viability, and begin the process of engaging a university or research institution to deliver a collaborative R&D project.”

Upon completion of the program, eligible participants may have the opportunity to access facilitation support, through CSIRO, to connect to research expertise nationally, along with dollar-matched R&D funding.

Innovate to Grow: Ending Plastic Waste is open to SMEs working in the following subsectors:

• Plastic processing or conversion
• Plastic waste collection and sorting
• Plastic recycling
• Packaging
• Agriculture and food
• Manufacturing
   

The Innovate to Grow: Ending Plastic Waste program, commencing 7 September, is available for up to 20 SMEs. Applications close on 14 August. To learn more or apply, click here.

Image credit: iStock.com/franz12