MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), through its attached agency, the National Development Company (NDC), is leading the Philippines’ efforts towards sustainable development. This initiative includes securing a USD 3 million investment for a waste-to-energy project with the Australian startup Cyclion.
Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s visit to Australia, the NDC signed a memorandum of understanding with Cyclion in March 2024 during the Philippine Business Forum. This agreement was facilitated by the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) – Sydney, representing the DTI’s trade and investment promotion arm in Australia. It marks the beginning of Cyclion’s journey to establish its first processing plant in Manila, expected to be operational by the end of 2024.
This state-of-the-art facility will feature Cyclion’s technology for converting biowaste into green fuel, significantly enhancing the country’s efforts towards innovative and sustainable waste management. The facility’s modular design will enable the processing of 900 tonnes of waste daily, highlighting the project’s scalability and adaptability to varying waste volumes.
DTI Secretary Fred Pascual noted, “The Philippines and Australia share a strong economic partnership, and we see even greater opportunities in the future. By strengthening the collaboration between our public and private sectors, we can unlock new avenues for growth and innovation in key sectors like agriculture, education, critical minerals, and clean energy.”
In support of this, NDC’s General Manager Antonilo Mauricio said, “NDC is eager to work with Cyclion towards a cleaner future. Our joint efforts will advance waste management solutions, contributing to the national agenda on energy security and environmental sustainability.”
Cyclion’s Founder and CEO, Philip Major, lauded the Philippines’ proactive stance on environmental issues. “Cyclion values the Philippines’ forward-thinking approach to solve waste management challenges. We are excited to work on this partnership and contribute to the country’s sustainable future with our innovative and sustainable solutions,” Major stated.
Cyclion’s technology uniquely processes municipal solid waste, promptly transforming it into valuable fuels like diesel. Additionally, it harnesses solid waste to fuel Combined Heat Power generators, creating an innovative approach to electricity production. ♦
Date of release: 10 April 2024
