Minister for Mines and Petroleum, the Hon. Bill Johnston, has launched the first actions under the Minerals Research Institute of Western Australia’s (MRIWA) Net Zero Emission Mining Challenge.
Up to $1.5 million co-funding is available to activate research and development and facilitate emissions reduction in Western Australia’s energy and emissions-intensive mining sector.
MRIWA is offering up to $1 million in co-funding for research addressing a challenge or issue in the Western Australian mining sector that, if overcome, could facilitate a move towards net-zero emissions.
Competitive applications are invited until 7 July 2021, with a focus on research proposals that activate data-driven decisions, innovation in mining and processing technology and improved energy utilisation, to accelerate net-zero emission mining.
The Minister also announced support for small and medium businesses in the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) sector to enhance their innovation credentials and contribute to the challenge, through CSIRO’s ‘Innovate to Grow’ program.
MRIWA is working in partnership with CSIRO and ed-tech start-up Practera to offer up to 25 places in the free, online learning program commencing in July 2021. On completion of the program, eligible participants can apply to MRIWA for small grants to co-fund the research proposals they develop through the program.
“METS are a vital part of the resources sector supply chain, and I encourage all eligible small businesses to apply and play a role in the McGowan Government’s commitment of net zero emissions by 2050,” Minister Johnston said.
For more information and to apply for either initiative, visit here.
