Far North Queensland is making trash into a future the region can treasure

RDA Tropical North (RDATN) envisions a future where regional recycling hubs are a standard across Australia. In partnership with key stakeholders, RDATN is leading a transformational project to establish a regional plastic recycling industry in Far North Queensland (FNQ).

This initiative, to build a recycling centre dealing with plastic waste generated by banana farms, was supported by Cairns Regional Council and the Australian and Queensland Governments. The centre operated by EnviroPlas Recycling will transform 6,000 tonnes of waste into plastic bags and clips to protect fruit each year.

The project is underpinned by the key principles of the 2018 National Waste Policy: Less waste more resources. This policy framework highlighted 5 overarching principles for management in a circular economy and the critical role recycling programs have on employment. For example, for every 10,000 tonnes of waste that is recycled, 9.2 full-time equivalent jobs are created. Compared with 2.8 full-time equivalent jobs if the same amount of waste was sent to directly landfill.

The project is aiming to create local jobs, reduce freight costs, produce environmentally friendly products and foster sustainable practices The partnerships and collaborations formed through this project will serve as a blueprint for other regions looking to enhance their recycling capabilities and contribute to a circular economy.

There have been over 6,000 tonnes of plastic collected in Far North Queensland (FNQ) over the past year. RDATN supports the transformation of waste into reusable materials to address the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and create sustainable opportunities for the community.

RDATN Chief Executive Officer Sonja Johnson said, “The recycling funding offered by the Queensland Government presented an opportunity for RDA Tropical North to put forward a Business Case that would help local projects to successfully apply”.

Key Milestones:

Recycling success: EnviroPlas is a plastic scrap recycling company and has secured a $1.08 million grant thru the Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund (QRMF)1. This grant helped establish a cutting-edge recycling centre on the Atherton Tablelands. When fully operational, the Mareeba-based facility will process 6,000 tonnes of agricultural, commercial and consumer plastics each year. It will also employ 45 people across three shifts each day. This project marks a significant milestone in regional recycling, promoting a circular economy approach, reducing waste and delivering local jobs.
Expanding impact: 5 additional projects in RDATN region have secured funding via QRMF to enhance waste management and recycling infrastructure in the region. RDATN played a crucial role in raising awareness and support for these projects. RDATN’s promotional effort highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and contributed to securing the necessary funding to bring these vital projects to life. The outcome reflects a shared commitment to fostering a cleaner, more sustainable environment.
Ongoing support: RDATN continues to support EnviroPlas by keeping the business connected with relevant agencies. This assistance ensures the company’s potential for regional development is maximised. The collaboration between the RDA and EnviroPlas exemplifies the power of partnerships in driving innovation and sustainability in regional communities.

Recent Developments:

Cairns Regional Council Campaign: the EnviroPlas project is now featured in the Cairns Regional Council’s Smart Green Economy promotional campaign. This initiative raises awareness of investment opportunities in FNQ from a decarbonisation and net-zero perspective, while also engaging the local community and promoting online participation. It aims to bring this initiative to a wide audience and highlight its positive impacts on the community. The campaign will be presented to global investors and visitors at the Global Nature Positive Summit from 8-10 October 2024, in Sydney.
Engagement with Trade & Investment QLD (TIQ): the plastics recycling opportunity is being positioned to attract overseas and family investment funds through TIQ. This strategic engagement aims to attract significant investment into RDA Tropical North, further bolstering the region’s recycling capabilities and employment opportunities.

EnviroPlas is partnering with the Queensland Department of State Development and Infrastructure (DSDI). Overseeing a $45 million grant program with DSDI, this grant offers up $10 million for each project. These projects focus on tackling commercial and industrial waste and developing recycling solutions for renewable energy technologies. The collaboration aims to unite the region's resource recovery and recycling sector. DSDI and TIQ will present at an upcoming event, showcasing available grant and investment opportunities.

Setting the benchmark for regional recycling

The regional plastic recycling hub enhances the local economy and positions RDA Tropical North as a leader in sustainable practices. The success of the EnviroPlas initiative sets a benchmark for other regional recycling centres across Australia.

It demonstrates how regional collaboration can drive innovation, create jobs, and foster environmental stewardship. As RDA Tropical North continues to attract investment and develop its recycling infrastructure, it stands as a model for sustainable development and economic growth in regional Australia.

By replicating the successful model established in Tropical North, other regions could benefit from improved waste management, local job creation and sustainable practices

Learn more: Mareeba recycling centre to transform banana plastic waste

1 The National Partnership Agreement (NPA) between the Queensland and Australian Governments, $40 million is being invested in a new Queensland Recycling Modernisation Fund (QRMF) to boost Queensland’s recycling industry.