Waste 2026 Conference

UNSW SMaRT Centre Director Prof Veena will deliver a keynote speech at the Waste 2026 Conference 13 May 2026.

Veena's talk will highlight that using recycling innovations such as UNSW SMaRT Centre's MICROfactorie^TM Technologies and its Green Steel^TM Polymer Injection Technology that recover valuable materials from waste and reform them into new manufacturing feedstock and products are central to help achieve materials sustainability and for the energy system needed for the future.

In a keynote speech entitled "SMaRT technologies using waste as a sustainable resource", Veena will also highlight SMaRT's work on researching solutions for battery recycling and metals resource recovery using innovative and collaborative opportunities are crucial to help create circular economies while enhancing sovereign capability while reducing reliance on global supply chains.

Event website and registration

Host says:

For three decades, the Coffs Harbour Waste Conference has been a cornerstone of Australia’s waste management sector, uniting industry professionals, policymakers and advocates each year to explore current challenges and set the agenda for the future. In May 2026, we will mark this extraordinary legacy with our most ambitious program yet – and we invite you to be part of it.

Waste 2026 promises to be bigger, bolder and more inspiring than ever before. Across three energising days, you’ll engage with leading thinkers and innovators, discover cutting-edge solutions, and connect with passionate peers committed to creating a bright future for the sector and those it serves.