The Hub is proud to support pioneering research that tackles key challenges in the energy transition, nature-based solutions, and emerging decarbonisation technologies. Projects funded through the Hub address real-world issues with the potential to shape Queensland’s delivery of a Net Zero future.
A call for proposals went to the Hub’s partner universities in late 2024. With input from the Hub’s Advisory and Steering Committees, the Hub is proud to announce the funding of eight new research projects in 2025. These projects will build on research conducted by each of the Hub’s research themes in 2024, supporting the Queensland Government’s commitment to Net Zero by 2050:
- Community and Regional Transformations – understanding regional decarbonisation preferences and workforce implications
- Nature-Based Solutions and Environmental Integrity – harnessing biodiversity, carbon storage, and innovative agricultural practices
- Technologies and Innovation – developing net-zero solutions in construction and energy microgrids
- Emission Reduction Plans – supporting the Queensland Government’s Net Zero Roadmap
Each project is led by experts from Queensland’s leading universities, driving research that will inform policy, industry, and community action.
Meet the researchers and their projects
- Dr Jeremy De Valck, Central Queensland University: Transitioning to Net Zero: Exploring preferences and regional strategies for decarbonisation in Queensland
- Professor John Rolfe, Central Queensland University: Analysing workforce implications of renewable energy projects in regional Queensland
- Distinguished Professor Lin Schwarzkopf, James Cook University: An Outstanding Opportunity: Using solar farms for biodiversity preservation
- Professor Mohan Jacob, James Cook University: Sustainable vegetable cultivation using agricultural waste derived biochar
- Dr Mehdi Serati, The University of Queensland: Enhancing CO2 absorption in shotcrete and concrete using mafic-based aggregates
- Professor Cathy Yule, University of the Sunshine Coast: Unique fire-resistant Queensland peatlands: a nature based carbon storage solution
- Dr Naoya Takeda, QUT: Optimising on-farm carbon footprint measurements for the verification of low-carbon commodities
- Professor Fuwen Yang, Griffith University: Feasibility study of Net Zero microgrids
Each project is comprised of a multidisciplinary team of researchers, harnessing expertise from other partner universities.
The Hub is hosting a webinar to introduce its new researchers, discuss their projects and respond to attendee questions.
