First Nations-owned business Spinifex Brewing Co. and Murdoch University are teaming up to tackle climate change by turning waste into profit.
The Broome-based brewery and Murdoch University recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding which will see Spinifex work with the university's Harry Butler Institute on projects looking to transform brewery waste such as spent grain and yeast into value-add products.
The breweries' waste will also put its waste to good use with Murdoch's commercial entity, Algae Harvest, exploring ways to capture carbon algal biomass production.
The brewery - which is famous for its Australian native flavoured beers - and the university will collaborate on research and teaching at the new Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia (FIPWA, located in Nambeelup south of Perth.
The Murray Shire-owned precinct - known as 'Mereny Bidi Boodja' in the local Noongar language – will enable WA's agrifood and beverage industry to flourish and grow.
Spinifex chairman Gavin McKay said the Spinifex Algae Harvest project would set a new standard for environmental sustainability in the brewing industry.
"I have always held great admiration for the craft brewing industry's commitment to environmental sustainability and thoughtfulness," he said.
"It is with utmost pleasure that we join forces with a world-class institution to advance our shared goals of promoting sustainability, fostering environmental consciousness, and embracing a circular economy.
"Together, we will drive forward innovative commercial opportunities, propelling the craft beer industry into the next phase of positively influencing every aspect of our business endeavours."
Harry Butler Institute Director Simon McKirdy said Spinifex's waste would provide students with valuable learning and research opportunities.
"With the latest and emerging technologies and processes, the Spinifex Brewery complements the FIPWA Murdoch learning and research environment," Professor McKirdy said.
"This partnership is an exciting step towards creating a sustainable future for the brewing industry, while also providing learning and research opportunities for students".