Tuesday 30 June 2009

TechClinics® create a buzz in industry

Coming up with complete solutions for urgent problems such as climate change can require the cooperation of many stakeholders, each of whom holds only part of the answer. For example, to make renewable fuels such as biodiesel commercially available requires not only a source “foodstock”, it also requires a distiller, a distribution network, a refiner, and perhaps adaptation of end-user equipment before it becomes a viable alternative to existing fossil fuels. Such an assembly of producers and users is called a value chain, and in new industries, such value chains can take a long time to assemble.

In conjunction with the Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development, and Innovation, the AIC has created its TechClinic® process to enable contributors to the value chain to recognise each other, and to come together in a supportive environment where collaborations can be formed so the industry can advance.

The first of these TechClinics was hosted by the AIC on the topic of ‘Advanced Technologies in Biofuels – Algae’ in Brisbane on 31 March 2009. A number of outcomes have been achieved as a result of this process.

Firstly, collaborative agreements have been signed in the form of MOU’s between a number of TechClinic participants. Of particular note is the MOU signed between GreenCell Environmental Solutions Pty Ltd and the James Cook University (JCU).

Secondly, a greater awareness has been established of several algae-derived biofuels activities, including research and development programs at the Institute of Molecular Biosciences , UQ, James Cook University and CSIRO, and industry demonstration plants through MBD Biodiesel and GreenCell Environment Solutions Pty Ltd. Furthermore, the algae-derived biofuels value chain was defined and further developed, identifying the strengths and opportunities for both Queensland and Australia .

Finally, new relationships have been created between industry and the research sector, while existing relationships have been strengthened. For example, as a result of the TechClinic, Biodiesel Queensland has established stronger relationships with the research sector and in particular with James Cook University .

Such a process has created great excitement among the contributors to the TechClinic. The process has brought:

•          An increased understanding of the opportunities and the pathways  to develop and utilise a new technology 
•     Increased collaborative opportunities
•     Enhanced ability for end-users to access new research and technology developments.

    

The AIC’s second TechClinic was held in Cairns in June on the topic of “New technologies for marine tourism operators” and created similar excitement and new activity. With at least five more TechClinics planned on a variety of topics for 2009/10, the AIC is committed to helping accelerate the growth of viable new industries in Australia .

To go back to the AIC ENewsletter please click here.

< Back