Yarrabilba Circular Food Economy

In Partnership With:

Queensland University of Technology (QUT)

Lendlease

The Challenge

Designing sustainable, healthy and prosperous communities for a growing population is a challenge faced across the world. The origins of the food we eat are increasingly obscure and people in urban centres are often detached from food production. How can communities be designed to increase food security, minimise waste, build knowledge and skills, drive employment and enhance the natural environment? How can communities actively participate in the food economy of their region?

The Solution

By applying circular economy principles, supported by digital technologies such as sensors, communities can work together to transform their food system. The team of researchers at QUT and Lendlease created a framework and “how to guide” to help transform local food systems. This involves collecting kitchen waste, making compost and growing food, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The design uses recycled and waste materials.

Impact

New, scalable model for urban agriculture that can be applied in other Australian towns and cities
Prototype digital community composting system with in-built sensors, dashboard and incentive system
Smartphone-enabled community credit/bartering system where people can exchange goods and services related to food
Community engagement program to build local skills and knowledge