Company Interview / Waste not: How ARC is converting trash into resources

Key points:

Australia is missing chances for a circular economy, converting waste into resources, told by Adam McArdle of ARC Ento Tech.Innovative use of mining and insect tech to recycle 90% of waste into new products.Collaboration of government and industry is key for success.

Adam McArdle from ARC Ento Tech highlights Australia's potential oversight in embracing alternative methods for waste conversion to promote a circular economy. He states that through innovative technology initially inspired by mining practices, 90% of red bin waste is transformed into usable resources, reducing landfill reliance significantly.

Adam explains that ARC Ento Tech's process involves digesters and insects to efficiently separate and utilize waste, producing fertilizers, biofuels, and even synthetic coal for steel and hydrogen production. He acknowledges challenges like cost, contamination, and the limitations posed by other countries rejecting waste exports.

He advocates for strong leadership across government, industry, and bureaucracy to accelerate circular economy initiatives. The New South Wales Government's recent Fogo legislation is seen as a positive step. Collaboration is emphasised between sectors to address contamination risks and drive swift advancements.