QLD government backs challenge addressing lithium batteries, which are “putting the lives of our waste industry workers at risk”
The Waste and Recycling Industry of Queensland (WRIQ) has launched a competition in the hope of unearthing new solutions to the growing problem of fires caused by lithium ion batteries.
In a statement on Wednesday, WRIQ said “Challenge Waste – the Lithium–ion Battery Challenge” covers six categories and is open to “entrants of all ages, from anywhere in the world”.
According to research published by the Australian Council of Recycling last June, approximately 30 fires happen each day across Australia’s recycling and waste facilities due to batteries.
“There are so many fantastic ideas being generated in universities, research organisations and startups,” said WRIQ CEO, Alison Price.
“We aim to solve one of the most problematic challenges the industry faces while celebrating innovation with the right funding and support, and a pathway to commercialisation for the best and brightest.”
The end-of-life battery disposal challenge is supported by the Queensland government through its Recycling and Jobs Fund.
Bin fires have doubled in the last five years and batteries are “putting the lives of our waste industry workers at risk,” said environment minister Andrew Powell.
“We are proud to support this initiative that will attract the brightest minds from international, national and state innovators to work with industry and government on developing technology products and services to solve this issue.”
A monetary prize pool was not mentioned in the statement, though it said applications would be assessed by a panel of industry experts and candidates shortlisted for funding “based on market fit, product readiness, commercial business case and potential impact”.
The six categories open cover early detection, workplace safety, sustainable recovery, smart extraction, incident response, and future-ready design.
Nominations close on June 30, with a shortlist to be announced the following month. The challenge is open to companies with solutions already in the market.
Eligibility and other information can be found at this link.
Picture: supplied
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