Australia has taken a major step toward becoming a global leader in green metals with the launch of the Green Metals Innovation Network (GMIN) – a $10 million initiative designed to boost collaboration between industry, government and researchers.
The network, led by CSIRO in partnership with the Heavy Industry Low-carbon Transition Cooperative Research Centre (HILT CRC), will focus on accelerating the development and uptake of low-emission technologies for producing iron, steel, alumina and aluminium – industries that currently generate nearly $150 billion in exports and support almost 200,000 jobs.
GMIN is a flagship initiative under the Federal Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda, which aims to leverage the nation’s renewable energy and mineral wealth to position Australia at the forefront of value-added materials in a net-zero economy.
CSIRO chief executive Dr Doug Hilton said the initiative builds on decades of industry engagement and will play a critical role in building a skilled workforce for emerging low-carbon industries.
“At CSIRO, we strive to shape technology development that drives low-cost electrification and decarbonisation of our major industries and exports in a competitive, low-carbon global economy.
“The challenge is immense, but equally there is opportunity here for Australia to be an innovator and to create a future where sustainable energy and mineral resources expand our prosperity,” Dr Hilton said.
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The network will drive innovation by addressing key technical and economic challenges, supporting new processing routes, de-risking emerging technologies, and identifying ways to improve cost and performance outcomes.
HILT CRC CEO Jenny Selway said the network would fast-track the development of low-cost green metal production methods suited to Australian ores and conditions.
“By strengthening collaboration between industry and research, GMIN will help accelerate Australia’s transition to net zero while creating new opportunities for our economy,” Selway said.
Green metals will be central to the nation’s economic future. Current annual exports of ores and manufactured products in the iron, steel, alumina and aluminium sectors are valued at almost $150 billion and the sectors employ almost 200,000 people.