A new regional partnership is being created to enhance the health of communities and the environment.

Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) and RDA Murraylands and Riverland (RDAMR) have joined with state government body Green Industries SA (GISA) to drive the creation of a “circular economy” blueprint for the two eastern regions.

GISA spokesman Andrew Hutcheon said a circular economy aimed to reduce waste and pollution by reducing the consumption of finite resources, re-using products and materials where possible and was driven by renewable energy.

“It’s about reuse, recycling and responsible manufacturing to enhance the health of communities and the health of the environment,” he said.

“This will be the first time a model for a regional circular economy has been created in Australia and will likely act as a template for other regions to adopt.

“Shortly, the call will go out to commercial consultants to submit a tender to create an innovative document that identifies and analyses the needs, opportunities and pathways to a more circular economy. This blueprint will include details of new investment and job opportunities for the regions.”

Mr Hutcheon said once the report was generated, GISA and the two RDAs would focus on generating activities and projects that aligned with its vision and recommendations. The partners hope this will drive engagement by industry and governments and inspire community involvement.

“The SA Government recognises the circular economy offers real opportunity to regional communities to build ongoing economic resilience, social value and environmental security,” he said.

“This collaborative and trail-blazing pilot project is the first step in assisting RDALC and RDAMR understand those opportunities and develop their own positive pathways towards realising those shared benefits.”