Waste management projects funded

Forty community projects, from insect and koala research to waste management and space education, are to be funded a total of $660,320 under the Queensland Government’s latest Engaging Science Grants.

“The Engaging Science Grants help to increase participation in science-based activities and engagement between scientists and the community,” said Meaghan Scanlon, Science Minister.

“Through the grants, we also support events and activities that inspire students to study STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects, promote STEM careers, and engage the wider community to increase awareness of the amazing science happening in Queensland.

“The grants also support citizen science projects that contribute to important Queensland research, with successful applicants receiving funding of up to $20,000.”

Scanlon said the grants have been awarded to schools, universities, citizen science groups and other organisations that are passionate about connecting students and other Queenslanders with science and scientists.

Successful applications included Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton, which received $7800 for its project “Waste watch” that aims to reduce waste in schools and across the community and to explore and share alternative and sustainable methods of reducing what goes to landfill.

CQUniversity received $19,942 for its project “Smart grubs in schools” that will provide a series of activities for Park Avenue Primary School students that helps inform them about food waste solutions other than landfills.

The University of Queensland also received $20,000 for its project “Worm power for sustainable community farming” that will study the transformation of organic waste products into bio-based fertilisers through vermi-composting with the Gympie and District Landcare Group.

Professor Hugh Possingham, Queensland Chief Scientist said the grants would expand the opportunities for Queenslanders to participate in local science events such as robotics workshops and careers fairs as well as citizen science projects to help scientists collect data.

“This participation will enable more Queenslanders to value science for some of the many things it does – expanding cultural horizons, improving public debate, creating jobs and protecting the environment,” Possingham said.

For more information, visit: www.chiefscientist.qld.gov.au/science-comms/engaging-science-grants