Circular Economy

The circular economy is beginning to take shape and grow across the Cairns and FNQ region. Support for circular initiatives is becoming increasingly popular and circularity principles are already deeply embedded within certain actors in the private sector.

• $1.86tn - the estimated value of the circular economy to Australia over the next 20 years.
• $1bn - the value add to Australia’s economy by increasing waste recover by 5%.
• 1 kilotonne - of waste currently diverted from landfill in Cairns region.

Unlocking recycling opportunities

A feasibility study for the region mapped material flows of plastic waste, noting that the recovery rate for Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) is just 1.9%, compared to the national average of 9.4%. There are significant opportunities for investors, with studies indicating potential returns of between 10-25% in equity IRR terms.