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ZeroWaste
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Our focus
Innovative solutions for a circular economy and a world without waste
Tackling the global waste problem requires new thinking and collaboration across disciplines. There is a shift around the world toward a circular economy, where waste products from one process are turned into resources for another. This transition is essential for environmental sustainability, economic growth, and community wellbeing.
Southern Cross University’s ZeroWaste research cluster brings together expertise in geochemistry, environmental science, engineering, business, and education to develop practical solutions for our global waste challenge. Our research addresses the barriers to integrating waste into the circular economy, developing and implementing cutting-edge scientific, technical, social, economic, and education-based strategies.
From advanced recycling and waste valorisation to sustainable product design and transformative education, the ZeroWaste cluster leads research that supports cleaner environments, resource efficiency, and a more sustainable future for all.
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Our projects and research focus on:
- Circular economy innovation to transform waste products into valuable resources
- Advanced waste management and recycling
- Environmental geochemistry and pollution control
- Education and community engagement through transformative education and outreach on waste reduction and sustainability
- Addressing economic and social barriers to waste integration, supporting sustainable tourism, and fostering regional innovation
ReCirculator
Led by Southern Cross, ReCirculator connects NSW Northern Rivers businesses in a circular economy ecosystem of cutting-edge technology
Environmental Analysis Laboratory
Specialising in quality analytical services, including testing for agricultural soil, plant, acid sulfate soil, contaminants and more
Linkage projects
Southern Cross is collaborating with industry and community to deliver a number of ARC-funded research projects
Latest news
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Black soldier flies: The unassuming insect transforming rubbish into resources
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Resource recovery to get AI boost in new Southern Cross-led project
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Education a key to stop communities choking on their own waste
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Sustainable ‘cardboard’ homes: a post-disaster housing solution?
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Are flies the solution to our plastic problem? SCU Buzz
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Can we turn local waste plastics into a 3D printed house?
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Our Researchers
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Dirk Erler
Professor - Faculty of Science and Engineering
Nutrient cycling, Environmental engineering, Wastewater, Environmental science
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Andrew Rose
Professor - Faculty of Science and Engineering
Environmental Engineering, Geochemistry, Aquatic chemistry, Biogeochemistry, Circular economy
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Amanda Reichelt-Brushett
Professor - Faculty of Science and Engineering
Ecotoxicology, Rehabilitation and restoration, Environmental science, Catchment management, Sediment and water quality assessment and management
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Pascal Scherrer
Professor - Faculty of Science and Engineering
Sustainability, Circular economy, Regional development, Plastic waste, Tourism
Professor Amanda Reichelt-Brushett
Dr Amy Cutter-Mackenzie-Knowles
Dr Ernest Du Toit
Dr Feifei Tong
Mr Michael Ingram
Associate Professor Raina Mason
Mr Toby Shapiro Ellis
Mr Yan Zhang