Determining the feasibility of phytomining in rural Australia

The University of Sydney

  • Project code: PRJ-000543

  • Project stage: Closed

  • Project start date: Sunday, October 1, 2006

  • Project completion date: Thursday, May 31, 2007

  • National Priority: NEPI-RD&E to generate benefit across several plant industries

Program

New and Emerging Plant Industries

Research Organisation

The University of Sydney

Objective Summary

1) To undertake a desktop feasibility study whose aim is to determine particular localities and mineral targets that could support an emerging phytomining industry in rural Australia. This includes assessment of appropriate indigenous species as metal hyperaccumulators (plants able to take up abnormal quantities of metals). 2) To investigate the economic and social feasibility of phytomining in Australia i.e. determine the sustainability of phytomining. 3) To ultimately develop a novel non-traditional sustainable rural industry.