The Council

Upper Spencer Gulf Waste and Resource Recovery Strategy 2020-2025

Our region, and our communities of Port Augusta, Whyalla and Port Pirie are facing a once in a generation economic transformation. Substantial investment in renewable energy generation, mining and minerals processing, arid agriculture, Defence and tourism is providing our region with opportunities that we hope will build on our competitive strengths to become cleaner, more innovative, liveable and economically diverse.

On the back of this new investment, the Upper Spencer Gulf has an opportunity to play a substantial role in developing a Circular Economy for South Australia. This potential comes from:

Transformation of the Port Pirie smelter with the potential to process e-waste, tyres and other materials.
A focus by the Whyalla steelworks on increasing production, sustainability and ‘green steel’ capabilities.
Closure of the old Port Augusta coal power station and rehabilitation of the site, being replaced by significant new investment in renewable energy technologies in the region.
Development of Australia’s first arid horticulture operation and ongoing interest in algae-based technologies.
Development of an organics composting and processing facility.
A focus on more sustainable processes by nearby mining operations.