Multi-Mine Circular Resource Recovery Facility Solutions

This project followed a structured, evidence-based approach to identify priority materials and circular opportunities, leveraging both quantitative and qualitative insights to inform the design of a common-user Multi-Mine Resource Recovery Facility in the Bowen Basin.

To identify target materials by type and quantity, material flow data was analysed from multiple Basin mine sites. This data was averaged and scaled to reflect broader use across the Bowen Basin. Consultations were conducted with key stakeholders to confirm target materials and uncover factors that influence material management.

Better Cities Group conducted a comprehensive site analysis to evaluate strategically located facility options capable of supporting a regional circular economy network. Sites were selected to enable optimised logistics and scalable, long-term resource recovery operations. Solutions for recovery, reuse, and recycling of identified target materials were developed in collaboration with key stakeholders and subject matter experts.

The University of Queensland Sustainable Minerals Institute evaluated each material solution for its environmental, economic, and social impact using a life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis. This work formed the basis of a Prospectus for the Multi-Mine Circular Resource Recovery Facility.