UNSW Sydney says recycling research and sustainable manufacturing innovation are helping shape discussions on how Australia and India can strengthen economic ties, improve resource security and create new manufacturing opportunities.
Speaking at the Australia–India Economic Roadmap Business Reception in Melbourne, Scientia Professor Veena Sahajwalla AO, Director of UNSW’s Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT) Centre, said innovation would play a key role in supporting more sustainable manufacturing and resilient supply chains across both countries.
“If you’ve got innovation, you can innovate, not just in the manufacturing process, but you can actually innovate in your supply chains as well,” Prof. Sahajwalla said.
Using green metals as an example, she said materials currently overlooked in supply chains, including metal recovered from used tyres, could become valuable resources for manufacturing.
“There is no question that recycling waste is good for the environment. What we need to have is a far more sophisticated conversation around how it is also good for our economies,” she said.
“I would love to imagine a future where there is no such thing as waste. We are looking at all kinds of resources. We know that there’s value in it. If we can bring together waste and its transformation through recycling, through manufacturing and value creation, it would be a great outcome for our planet and for our countries’ economies.”
The reception was attended by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, government representatives, industry leaders and researchers.
Hosted by the Centre for Australia India Relations, the event explored opportunities for closer collaboration in clean energy, education, tourism and other priority sectors identified under the Australia–India Economic Roadmap.
Prof. Sahajwalla joined Centre for Australia–India Relations CEO Ryan Neelam, Deakin University Vice-President (Global Engagement) Ravneet Pawha and Tourism Australia Managing Director Robin Mack on a panel discussing opportunities for bilateral cooperation.
Federal Minister for Industry and Innovation Tim Ayres said Australia’s expertise could contribute to India’s energy transition while supporting industrial growth in both countries.
“As India accelerates its energy transition, Australian critical minerals, renewable energy expertise and low-emissions technologies can help meet growing demand while creating new investment, manufacturing and decarbonisation opportunities for both countries,” Ayres said.
Prof. Sahajwalla also emphasised the importance of translating research into practical outcomes and providing students with opportunities to see new technologies implemented beyond the laboratory.
“You’ve got to be able to show in a holistic way that this is not just something that sits in the labs where research is happening,” she said. “This is very much about the translation piece. So, when we talk about technology, how do you translate that? What is the journey to go from your lab to pilots, and ultimately, to implementation? And that can be quite an exciting frontier.”
According to UNSW, its SMaRT Centre has developed MICROfactories technology, which uses modular recycling systems to convert discarded products including mattresses, glass, textiles and electronic waste into new materials and products.
The university said the research reflects its broader focus on working with international partners to address shared sustainability and manufacturing challenges through research, innovation and education.
