The Queensland and Bavarian state governments have established a fresh scientific research agreement, aiming to assist Queensland in its efforts to address climate change and achieve its target of net zero emissions by 2050.
This recent agreement establishes an official partnership between the two governments to facilitate collaborative research at the university level, focusing on crucial areas such as sustainable fuels, energy storage, and technologies for reducing emissions.
During a live videoconference, the Science Minister of Queensland and the Bavarian Minister for Science and the Arts signed the agreement between the two states. This agreement capitalises on the already established research and industry ties between Queensland and Bavaria. Notable collaborations include the partnership between the Queensland University of Technology and the University of Bayreuth in Bavaria, as well as the alliance between the University of Queensland and the Technical University of Munich.
In June 2022, the Bavarian Government proposed an enhanced level of formal cooperation between the state governments of Bavaria and Queensland. This collaboration aimed to bolster joint research efforts at the university level, focusing on priority research areas.
The agreement supports collaborative research in various important fields, including green hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and energy storage. It also encompasses cleantech and emission reduction technologies, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, additive manufacturing, life sciences, biomedical research, the broader bioeconomy and aerospace.
Through this agreement, research opportunities will arise that contribute to the development of a robust and prosperous economy in Queensland. The aim is to effectively manage the risks associated with climate change while capitalising on the numerous opportunities presented by transitioning to a net zero emissions economy.
The science priorities emphasised in the agreement, such as green and synthetic fuels, improved energy storage, emission reduction technologies, and the bioeconomy, play a crucial role in supporting Queensland’s pursuit of the objectives outlined in the Queensland Climate Action Plan 2030.
The Climate Action Plan serves as a strategic guide for addressing climate change and achieving specific targets within the next decade. These targets include attaining a minimum of 50% renewable energy by 2030, reducing emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030, and ultimately transitioning to a net zero emissions economy by 2050.
By focusing on the science priorities highlighted in the agreement, Queensland can leverage research and technological advancements to advance its climate action goals and make significant progress towards a sustainable and low-carbon future.
The Science Minister of Queensland stated that the agreement between Queensland and Bavaria will facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology, contributing to the advancement of vital environmental, social, and economic research. Through this collaboration, research topics closely aligned with the priorities of both states will receive support, directly benefiting their economic development.
This agreement ensures that existing international science partnerships will be strengthened and opportunities for new international collaborations will be identified, bolstering the global scientific reputations of Queensland and Bavaria.
Of particular significance is the emerging model of the bioeconomy, which emphasises the sustainable use of renewable biological resources for the production of food, energy, and industrial goods. The new agreement signifies an exciting milestone in Queensland’s broader relationship with Germany, as the two regions work together to provide technological solutions to global challenges.
The Bavarian Minister for Science and the Arts stated that by signing the agreement, the exciting new potential is unleashed. The universities of Queensland and Bavaria are recognised for their excellence and prominent positions in influential rankings.
Both regions represent robust and competitive economies with substantial investments in science and research. Bavaria, through the Hightech Agenda, has implemented a comprehensive strategic program of €5.5 billion dedicated to high-tech research and innovation.
The collaboration between Bavaria and Queensland forms an exceptional partnership, as both regions recognise the significance of addressing global-scale challenges by working together. Shaping the future collectively, they understand the need to provide solutions to pressing questions.