Using local sugarcane bagasse to grow high-value mushrooms in Bundaberg

The project focused on growing three Asian mushrooms in Australia by using locally sourced sugarcane bagasse as a primary substrate. In collaboration with CQUniversity, Kenon Corporation Pty. Ltd. established and integrated mushroom supply chains reliance on imported substrates, improved the economic value of agricultural waste, and supported local economies.

Impact

Converting agricultural waste into profitable substrates, reducing input costs, and creating new revenue opportunities to strengthen regional economies

Partner

Project lead: Professor Delwar Akbar

Professor Delwar Akbar is a research leader at CQUniversity with extensive experience in regional economic development, supply chain analysis, and sector action planning. His work focuses on developing data-driven strategies to reduce waste, enhance value chain efficiency, and improve economic resilience in regional Australia. As the lead investigator for the Horticulture Sector Action Plan (Hort  SAP) project, Dr. Akbar leverages his expertise in stakeholder engagement, industry collaboration, and evidence-based planning to identify waste hotspots and implement practical solutions that align with industry needs. His approach integrates economic analysis with real-world supply chain insights to create impactful outcomes for the horticulture sector. Learn more.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

At CQUniversity we are committed to embedding sustainable practice in our operations, interactions and relationships, underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability sits as one of our strategic pillars within our Strategic Plan 2019-2023.

This project aligns to the following SDG Goals:

  • Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Goal 9)
  • Responsible Consumption and Production (Goal 12)

Learn more about our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals.

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