The collaboration centres around the launch of the Circular Future Fund (CFF) in 2025, a transformative initiative designed to accelerate Australia's shift from a linear to a circular economic model.
A strategic partnership for a sustainable economy
This first of a kind partnership between Planet Ark and Boston Global aligns two organisations with a shared vision of sustainability and economic resilience. Boston Global, known for its investment expertise and purpose driven mission, joins forces with Planet Ark to catalyse solutions to critical environmental challenges through the CFF.
To keep global heating below 1.5 degrees, the world must reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with a 45 per cent reduction by 2030. Research by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation shows that 55 per cent of the journey to net zero will be achieved by transitioning our energy systems to renewable sources. The remaining 45 per cent, however, must be addressed by moving from the linear 'take, make, dispose' model of resource use to a circular approach.
The CFF will focus on fostering such an approach to the materials economy—one that eliminates waste, keeps resources in use for as long as possible, and regenerates natural systems. This fund aims to support projects and innovations that contribute to these goals, directly benefiting Australian businesses, communities, and the environment.
There is potential to have up to $1 billion in funds under CFF management in the next five years, all focused on solving our triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and toxic pollution.
Goals and impact of the Australian Circular Future Fund
The CFF is not just about investment; it's about catalysing a new way of thinking about resources. The fund will target multiple sectors, including:
Recycling and waste management
Enhancing existing recycling systems and developing advanced recycling technologies.
Product design
Encouraging companies to adopt circular design principles, creating products that are longer-lasting, repairable, and recyclable.
Renewable resources
Supporting the development of bio-based materials and renewable energy solutions that are both scalable and sustainable.
By targeting these high-impact sectors, the CFF aims to facilitate Australia's leadership in circular practices, encouraging innovation and supporting the next generation of sustainable businesses.
Driving innovation and economic resilience
The partnership between Planet Ark and Boston Global recognises that a sustainable future requires more than just good intentions—it requires a solid economic foundation. By leveraging the expertise of both organisations, the CFF is set to provide funding and resources to innovators who are pioneering circular solutions.
This initiative will not only contribute to environmental protection but also drive economic resilience by creating jobs, stimulating green industries, and reducing dependence on finite resources.
A call to action for investors and innovators
The CFF is open to both investors and innovators who share the vision of a circular economy and a resilient future for the Australian economy. Investors will have the opportunity to support projects that deliver both strong financial returns and environmental benefits, while innovators will gain access to essential funding, guidance, and resources to bring their ideas to market.
Rebecca Gilling, CEO of Planet Ark, outlined that the fund could have a transformative impact on circularity in Australia.
“This partnership with Boston Global and the launch of the Australian Circular Future Fund is a pivotal step in our mission to transform Australia’s economy. We believe this fund will be instrumental in driving the circular transition and setting new benchmarks for sustainability,” she said.
Leigh Higgins, Chairperson of Boston Global’s funds management business echoed this sentiment, highlighting the fund’s potential to shape the future of Australia’s economic landscape.
"By investing in circular innovations, we are advancing a sustainable and prosperous future while enabling the business sector to harness the opportunities the circular economy presents," he said.
For more information about the Australian Circular Future Fund, or to explore investment and innovation opportunities, visit https://acehub.org.au/impact/circularfuturefund.