Decarb hub to propel QLD’s clean future
A decarbonisation hub has been formed in Queensland to bring together research experts, government, industry, and communities to help meet the state’s climate targets to boost renewable energy sources and achieve net zero by 2050.
The Queensland Decarbonisation Hub was officially launched today by Minister for Climate and Energy Mick de Brenni and Queensland Chief Scientist and Steering Committee Chair Professor Kerrie Wilson.
Funded by the Queensland Government, the Hub brings together seven universities, including CQUniversity, to drive research and innovation efforts to meet targets in the Queensland Climate Action Plan.
The Hub features three main research themes including:
- Community and regional transformations;
- Nature-based solutions and environmental integrity;
- Queensland's decarb capability and innovation ecosystmes.
CQUniversity expert in economy Professor John Rolfe is a research lead for the community and regional transformations theme.
Hub Coordinator, Professor Greg Marston from The University of Queensland, said the collaborative approach would bring together industry, communities and traditional owners to share knowledge and perspectives to support the state’s transition.
“There is a significant social and economic case for rapid emissions reduction, and a huge amount of effort underway to develop technologies to help achieve it,” Professor Marston said.
“The path to net zero is much more than a technology story – it's about people, places and ensuring that our communities have a say in the solutions and options on the table.
“Through the hub, we’ll work with urban and regional communities to create strategies that support their economic growth, create local jobs, and protect the environment.”
Research will focus on three themes:
- Understanding Queensland’s decarbonisation capabilities, to map the technologies, finance and other tools that are available;
- Developing and assessing nature-based solutions and environmental integrity, to harness natural infrastructure and processes;
- Supporting economic transformation in regional communities.
Other partnering universities include Griffith University, James Cook University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Southern Queensland and University of the Sunshine Coast.
In addition to working directly with communities, the Hub is supported by an Advisory Committee with representatives from industry, state and local government, First Nations and community groups.
