Project B Green (sugarcane)

Reference # A.3.2021118
Research Programs 3. Industry specific production and supply chain innovations

Project Timeframe 1.5 years (2022 to 2023)
CRCNA Funding $185,000
Total project value $463,286

Project summary and impacts

Project BGreen explored how the Burdekin sugar industry could diversify beyond traditional crystal sugar production by using the entire sugarcane crop to create new bio-based products and renewable energy opportunities.

Delivered by Queensland University of Technology, Sugar Research Australia and industry partners, the project investigated the feasibility of developing an energy self-sufficient, carbon-negative sugarcane refinery capable of producing high-value biochemicals alongside conventional sugar products. The research aimed to reduce financial risk for growers and millers while creating new revenue streams and strengthening long-term regional economic resilience.

The project demonstrated strong commercial potential for diversified sugarcane processing and helped build industry confidence in the transition toward a broader bioeconomy. Researchers confirmed that purified sugar syrups produced from sugarcane could be used in emerging biochemical manufacturing processes, opening opportunities for renewable fuels, bioglycols and other high-value products.

Importantly, the project identified significant cost savings through integration with existing milling infrastructure rather than constructing entirely new processing facilities. The study found that partnering with established sugar mills could avoid more than $750 million in capital costs associated with new milling and transport infrastructure, substantially improving the commercial viability of future bio-based manufacturing in the Burdekin region.

Although the project did not progress to full-scale development due to the high capital cost and risks associated with emerging technologies, it delivered valuable technical and commercial insights that continue to inform future investment pathways. The project also developed a market-ready bioeconomy concept capable of attracting future investment as renewable energy, hydrogen supply and biochemical processing technologies mature.

The research positions northern Australia’s sugar industry to diversify beyond sucrose production into biomass processing, renewable energy and specialty biochemicals, helping create a more resilient and sustainable future for regional sugar-growing communities.