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(don't) Waste Water! | Water Tech to Solve the World
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(don't) Waste Water! | Water Tech to Solve the World

Author: Antoine Walter

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❓ Ever wondered how the #WaterIndustry was reacting to our World's Water Challenges? Water Scarcity? #SDG6? PFAS? Climate Change? Circular Economy? Digitization and Smart Water?
💪 Get the Water Market pulse for free. In one hour per week, while you do the dishes!
📈 We talk water investment, water tech, water entrepreneurship and water market with entrepreneurs, thought leaders, book authors, scientists, investment funds, VCs, and C-Level experts from water majors.
➡️ Leverage their insights, advice & experience and ensure to stay on top of best practices
🗓️ Tune in every Wednesday (don't miss out! 😅)
🌐 Find all the detailed episode notes, interviews, infographics, and more at http://dww.show

Currently in its 10th Season, the "(don't) Waste Water" podcast has already welcomed around 200 guests from Water Majors (SUEZ, Veolia, Jacobs, Xylem, Kemira, Evoqua, Aquatech, SKion Water...), Scale-Ups (Cambrian Innovation, Epic Cleantec, Liqtech, 374Water, Gingko Bioworks...), Start-Ups (Puraffinity, KETOS, 120Water, ZwitterCo, Membrion, Source...), Universities (Berkeley, the Columbia Water Center), Investment Funds (Sciens Water, Mazarine, Burnt Island Ventures...), Business Accelerators (Imagine H2O, Elemental...), Book Authors (Seth Siegel, David Sedlak, David Lloyd Owen...) or Market Intelligence Companies (BlueTech Research, Global Water Intelligence, World Bank, OECD, Isle Utilities...). Or simply water legends like Mina Guli or Andrew Benedek!

On the "(don't) Waste Water" podcast, I strive to make the Water Industry easy to understand for everyone, starting with water professionals, executives, and investors. Hence, he opens the microphone to seasoned, inspirational water experts to discuss their field of excellence.

No one can claim an all-around in-depth understanding of a matter as complex as Water. But piece by piece, you can rebuild the puzzle. With curiosity, patience, and passion, Antoine Walter explores topics such as Advanced Treatment Technologies, Water-Energy Nexus (Hydrogen, Lithium...), PFAS removal, Nature-Based Solutions, Wastewater Reuse, Distributed Water Treatments, Water Finance, and Water Entrepreneurship.

I actually firmly believe that regular listeners of the "(don't) Waste Water" podcast may, in the end, claim a "Water MBA!"

A particular field of interest is how innovation forms, grows and gets widely adopted in a complex and conservative field like the Water Industry. This may be one of the keys to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal n°6 - #SDG6.

ABOUT ME:

I'm a second-generation Water Professional - the legend says my dad traded excavator sessions for me in river banks against lunch invitations. I followed on this early start by completing a Master's in Hydraulics and Environmental Engineering, then won the "Golden Mission" contest organized by ENGIE (GDF-SUEZ).

This led me to travel the Asia-Pacific region for one year to explore, amongst others, water treatment in Hong Kong, desalination facilities in Melbourne, water distribution management in Jakarta, water innovation in Singapore or social water projects in New Delhi and Gujarat. All of that was documented in videos, blog articles, radio spots, and conferences in engineering and business schools (that's where I got hooked!)

I've then worked for SUEZ in Switzerland in strategic marketing, business development, and sales for the DACH and Nordic regions, with an emphasis on micropollutant removal.

I then joined GF Piping Systems in 2017 to take over the business development for the company's services in Europe, then for all Water Treatment and Lithium topics worldwide.

I've been a regular speaker at conferences on four continents, gave my first TEDx in 2022, and regularly acted as a host.
Since 2020, I've been hosting the "(don't) Waste Water" podcast and giving lectures in Business and Engineering schools.

I'm married, a happy father of three, and I'm French (nobody's perfect 😅).
402 Episodes
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I reviewed 1188 investment deals in Water Technologies since 2018 to find out - amongst others - who the 5 largest by number of deals and by capital deployed are. How attractive is the Water Sector? Let's find out. More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Episode #️⃣ Aclarity - https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/ Gradiant - https://dww.show/how-gradiant-became-the-first-and-only-water-tech-unicorn/ Burnt Island Ventures - https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/ ZwitterCo - https://dww.show/zwitterions-super-powers-could-solve-wastewater-membranes-number-one-problem/ Membrion - https://dww.show/membrion-ceo-that-raised-22m-reveals-his-one-trick-you-must-copy-today/ Puraffinity - https://dww.show/should-we-really-destroy-pfas-no-your-fridge-knows-a-better-way/ Source - https://dww.show/expensive-heavy-but-desperately-needed-is-source-the-future-of-drinking-water/ Klir - https://dww.show/how-to-establish-compliance-confidence-for-every-water-utility/ 120Water - https://dww.show/whats-hidden-in-your-tap-water-dont-worry-your-utility-doesnt-really-know-better/ Transcend - https://dww.show/save-time-boost-value-and-wow-customers-in-a-snap-with-these-5-simple-ai-steps/ 🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: @dwwpodcast Main Channel: @AntoineWalterDWW Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 Introduction 00:35 1 - The Water Tech Investment Landscape 02:34 2 - Top 5 by Number of Investments 06:45 3 - Top 5 by Capital Deployed 09:34 4 - Fun Water Tech Investment Facts 11:32 5 - Trends & Outlook #WaterTech #WaterTechnology #WaterInvestment About this Podcast: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you. 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DontWasteWaterPodcastHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
This water tech start-up turns reverse osmosis into a batch process, which divides the reject by more than two and at half the energy cost. How? Let's find out!More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ Salinity Solutions' website: https://salinitysolutions.co.uk/The crowdfunding platform they leveraged: https://www.crowdcube.com/Innovate UK: https://www.ukri.org/councils/innovate-uk/Cornish Lithium: https://cornishlithium.com/SQM Lithium Ventures: https://sqmlitio.cl/acercando-el-capital-de-riesgo-a-los-negocios-tecnologicos-del-futuro-litio-agua-y-electromovilidad/SUEZ signing with Salinity Solutions: https://smartwatermagazine.com/news/university-birmingham/suez-pilot-salinity-solutions-low-energy-reuse-technology-france🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: http://youtube.com@dwwpodcast Main Channel: http://youtube.com@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Don't Waste Water Podcast03:26 Innovations in Reverse Osmosis06:14 Entrepreneurial Journey and Market Needs13:40 Crowdfunding Success and Prototyping16:36 Real-World Applications and Partnerships21:54 Future Prospects and Market Expansion24:02 The Long Road to Partnership with Suez25:51 Challenges and Advice for Early-Stage Water Companies29:43 Scaling Up and Commercializing Technology32:22 Partnerships and Global Expansion39:52 The Vision for Humanitarian Impact41:48 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts#ReverseOsmosis #ZLD #LithiumAbout this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this water tech podcast is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Salinity Solutions: An innovative water technology company specializing in batch reverse osmosis. The company focuses on improving the efficiency of conventional reverse osmosis systems, achieving higher water recovery rates while reducing energy consumption and chemical usage. Their technology is particularly applicable in industries facing water scarcity and pollution issues, such as mining, zero liquid discharge (ZLD), and vertical farming.Reverse osmosis (RO) is a widely used technology for water treatment, but it has significant drawbacks, including high energy consumption and waste production. Salinity Solutions, led by Tim Naughton, has developed a batch reverse osmosis process that addresses these issues by improving efficiency, reducing waste, and lowering chemical use. This innovative approach offers a more sustainable solution for water treatment needs.Unique Insights:Batch Process Innovation: Unlike traditional RO, batch reverse osmosis operates in a non-steady state with varying pressures, making it more efficient and easier to manage waste.Market Adaptation: The primary challenge for batch RO is market adoption due to its process innovation rather than new technology. However, it offers significant improvements, making it a viable solution for many applications.Humanitarian Roots: The technology was initially developed for humanitarian aid, utilizing solar energy for remote communities, and has evolved into a commercially viable solution addressing various industrial needs.Key Ideas:Reverse Osmosis Drawbacks: Traditional RO systems are energy-intensive, produce a lot of waste, and use significant amounts of chemicals, which limits their efficiency and sustainability.Batch Reverse Osmosis: Salinity Solutions’ innovation involves a batch process that significantly improves efficiency, achieving up to 98% water recovery with half the energy consumption and reduced chemical usage.Market Penetration Challenges: Although batch RO is not a new technology but a process innovation, its market adoption is hindered by the need for industries to adjust to its non-equilibrium operation.Initial Development and Funding: The technology's development began as a volunteer project, leading to a government-funded program that helped commercialize the technology through substantial grants and investments.Crowdfunding Success: Salinity Solutions successfully raised funds through Crowdcube, attracting over 2,000 shareholders and significantly exceeding their initial funding goals.Strategic Partnerships: The company has formed key partnerships, including a joint venture in India for ZLD applications and collaborations with large companies like Suez, enhancing their market presence and credibility.Technology Applications: The batch RO system is versatile, with applications ranging from lithium extraction in mining to phosphate removal in wastewater treatment and water reuse in agriculture.Future Outlook: Salinity Solutions aims to become a leading technology in the desalination sector, with ambitions to use their technology for humanitarian aid projects, particularly in remote and water-stressed regions.Counter-Intuitive Facts:Efficiency Paradox: Achieving 98% water recovery in batch RO is not just 3% better than 95%, but twice as efficient in terms of outcomes.Market Adoption: Despite being a superior process, batch RO faces market adoption challenges because it’s a process innovation, not a new technology.Humanitarian Origin: The commercial technology originated from a humanitarian project aimed at providing solar-powered water solutions for remote communities.Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-oxyle-destroys-pfas-with-the-energy-youd-actually-waste/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Elon Musk believes that solving the Global Water Crisis is a matter of Better Desalination. Could it start with this revolutionary tech developed by Salinity Solutions? Let's find out! More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ The full interview with Tim Naughton from Salinity Solutions will come out on Wednesday. Don't miss out!Video version: https://youtu.be/InWaoDkVLNc#️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ Salinity Solutions' website: https://salinitysolutions.co.uk/ My conversation with Prakash Govindan (Co-Founder of Gradiant): https://dww.show/how-gradiant-became-the-first-and-only-water-tech-unicorn/ 🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: @dwwpodcast Main Channel: @AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewa... Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 Elon Musk's Bold Claim on Solving the Global Water Crisis 01:42 Introducing Tom Pankratz and Tech Idol 02:46 Highlighting Salinity Solutions and Their Innovations 04:41 The Mechanics of Batch Reverse Osmosis 09:51 Salinity Solutions' Real-World Applications and Partnerships 12:14 Scaling Up and Future Prospects 13:37 The Impact and Future of Salinity Solutions #ReverseOsmosis #ZLD #Lithium About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Water is underfunded yet crucial to keeping the economy afloat: that's what we knew... but it turns out worse. We're failing faster than expected, and we don't even manage to spend the money we have. Yet there's hope: let's dig in. More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ The World Bank's Funding a Water Secure Future report: https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/water/publication/funding-a-water-secure-future?trk=feed-detail_main-feed-card_feed-article-content CDP's Water report: https://www.cdp.net/en/articles/media/new-data-reveals-us23-trillion-investment-opportunity-from-valuing-water The Latest US EPA assessment: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/new-epa-survey-highlights-wastewater-infrastructure-needs-protect-waterbodies The GWI/XPV White Paper on the 12.6 Trillion dollar opportunity: https://my.globalwaterintel-insights.com/l/2DC/watersecurityinvestment My exploration of the 2.3 Trillion dollar opportunity identified by CDP in 2023: https://youtu.be/VFEtYFC0dUo My full blog entry: https://dww.show/the-economic-fiasco-behind-the-global-water-crisis/ 🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: http://youtube.com@dwwpodcast Main Channel: http://youtube.com@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 Why is the World Struggling to Solve the Water Crisis? 01:00 Is $153.2 Billion enough? 03:17 The Hidden Inefficiencies in Water Utilities 05:30 Water Crisis: a Global Economic Threat? 07:49 From Crisis to $12.6 Trillion Opportunity #SDG6 #WaterFinance #WaterInvestment About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this water tech podcast is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
What can you apply from everything Fajer just shared? What can you steal and take home? Well, quite a lot if you ask me, starting with these seven insights I wrote down and number one:1. Customer-Driven Development:2. Pilot Strategically, and Prove Quickly 3. Build and Leverage Credibility:4. Position your technology as Future-Proofing for your Customers5. Prove your overall Sustainability in concrete terms6. Build as much as possible on existing infrastructure7. Data-Driven Customer Assurance:And there you have it, my 7 insights from Fajer Mushtaq in under 7 minutes, if you disagree with my selection, tell me, and if you'd like to dive deeper, well listen to the full interview!Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week! Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-oxyle-destroys-pfas-with-the-energy-youd-actually-waste/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
We know PFAS removal displaces the problem while PFAS destruction breaks the bank. Or so we thought: Oxyle thinks otherwise, and to understand why, listen to this! More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ Oxyle's Website: https://oxyle.ch/ Come say Hi to Fajer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fajer-mushtaq-0908/ Fajer's first appearance 4 years ago: https://dww.show/how-to-solve-a-global-challenge-in-an-easy-affordable-innovative-and-efficient-way/ My conversation on PFAS destruction with Julie Bliss Mullen from Aclarity: https://dww.show/how-aclarity-bootstrapped-its-journey-from-b2c-to-pfas-destruction/ My conversation on PFAS recycling with Henrik Hagemann from Purafinnity: https://dww.show/should-we-really-destroy-pfas-no-your-fridge-knows-a-better-way/ The only water tech unicorn (so far): https://dww.show/how-gradiant-became-the-first-and-only-water-tech-unicorn/ My blog entry on today's episode: https://dww.show/how-oxyle-destroys-pfas-with-the-energy-youd-actually-waste/🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: http://youtube.com@dwwpodcast Main Channel: http://youtube.com@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 In This Week's Episode 01:57 The Evolution of Oxyle: From Basement to Breakthrough 03:47 The Pivot: from Micropollutants to PFAS 13:23 The Science Behind Oxyle's PFAS Destruction Technology 27:40 The Future of PFAS Removal 38:45 Challenging the Status Quo: Oxyle's Mission and Vision 43:35 Navigating Water Treatment and Real-Time Monitoring 44:58 Is it possible to benchmark PFAS removal technologies? 48:08 The EPA's Conservative Approach to PFAS Treatment Recommendations 51:39 The European Market Opportunity for PFAS Treatment Technologies 55:18 Strategic Growth and Fundraising: Building a Sustainable Water Tech Company 59:06 Oxyle's Business Model 01:10:55 Rapid Fire Questions 01:15:56 7 Insights to Take Home #PFAS #PFASDestruction #PFASRemoval About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this water tech podcast is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Oxyle is a company intensely focused on the treatment and monitoring of micropollutants, specifically PFAS. Over the last two and a half years, they have honed their technology to address the increasing market need for effective PFAS removal solutions. Oxyle’s approach leverages existing water treatment technologies but with a sharpened focus on PFAS, positioning themselves as a benchmark in the industry.In this full podcast episode, Antoine Walter discusses with Fajer Mushtaq from Oxyle about the company's strategic refocus on PFAS pollutants. Over recent years, Oxyle has tailored its technology to specifically tackle the complexities of PFAS treatment, driven by market needs and the volume of customer inquiries. This adaptation has not altered their core technology but has sharpened its application, making Oxyle a leader in this niche market. The discussion delves into the technical aspects of their treatment processes, emphasizing the use of mechanical energy to enhance chemical reactions efficiently. Additionally, Fajer highlights the company's commitment to meeting rising regulatory standards while ensuring their treatments remain cost-effective and scalable, a significant concern for many of their clients. Oxyle's approach not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with the economic realities of the industries they serve, positioning them as a pivotal player in the water treatment industry.Unique Insights:Oxyle has recognized the shift in market demands towards PFAS treatment, adapting their technology to meet these new challenges without fundamental changes to their system.The company emphasizes the importance of not just meeting regulatory standards but ensuring the treatment process is cost-effective and scalable, which has become a significant concern for their clients.They highlight an innovative use of mechanical energy sources in their treatment processes, enhancing the efficiency of their catalytic reactions.Key Ideas:PFAS Focus: Oxyle has shifted its focus to PFAS due to high demand and regulatory pressure, aiming to establish industry benchmarks in this area.Technology Adaptation: Their technology uses mechanical energy from water flow, making it energy-efficient and effective at breaking down pollutants.Market Response: The shift was a direct response to customer needs, with Oxyle prioritizing PFAS treatment due to the volume of inquiries related to these compounds.Regulatory Compliance and Cost: Oxyle balances compliance with regulatory standards with the economic concerns of their clients, ensuring their solutions are accessible.Counter-Intuitive Facts:Use of Mechanical Energy: Oxyle uses the mechanical energy from water flow as a primary energy source for their catalytic process, which is a novel approach in the treatment of PFAS.Regulatory Ahead of Technology: While regulations are becoming stricter, Oxyle’s technology was already designed to meet future standards, which is uncommon as many companies often scramble to meet new regulations.Cost-Effectiveness Over Direct Profit: Oxyle’s business model focuses on long-term cost-effectiveness and scalability rather than immediate profit margins from their hardware, choosing to earn through operational excellence and service.Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-oxyle-destroys-pfas-with-the-energy-youd-actually-waste/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Johnny Pujol.For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.What can we learn from Peter Christou's rollercoaster of a ride as the President and Founder of Swirltex? Well, quite a lot if you ask me, starting with these seven insights I wrote down and number one:1. Navigating Market Entry2. Collaboration and Partnerships3. Embrace Serendipity in R&D4. Perseverance Through Hardship5. Take Bold Risks with Applications6. Leadership and Team Dynamics7. Impact Over ProfitI'd say that each of these insights from Swirltex's journey offers valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship in the water sector. They highlight the blend of passion, innovation, and strategic thinking necessary to not only survive but thrive in this, as you know it, demanding field.Anyways, there you have it, my 7 insights from Peter Christou in under 7 minutes, if you disagree with my selection, tell me, and if you'd like to dive deeper, well listen to the full interview!Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week! Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-swirltex-nearly-crushed-its-founder-before-taking-off/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Peter Christou had a water membrane epiphany in his garage in Edmonton. But a terrible timing and some financial difficulties of one of his investors basically turned him... homeless, and in the need to steal food to survive. As Swirltex has since soared and proved its worth, let's explore the full story!More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ 🔗 Swirltex's Website: https://swirltex.com/🔗 Come say Hi to Peter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-christou-4b758043/ 🔗 My article on this week's conversation: https://dww.show/how-swirltex-nearly-crushed-its-founder-before-taking-off/🔗 My conversation with one of Peter's Investor, John Robinson: https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/ 🔗 Mazarine Ventures' website: https://www.mazarineventures.com/🔗 Alberta Innovates' website: https://albertainnovates.ca/news/swirltex-puts-a-spin-on-innovation/🔗 The Creative Destruction Labs: https://creativedestructionlab.com/🔗 E3 Lithium: https://e3lithium.ca/🔗 LithiumBank: https://www.lithiumbank.ca/🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: https://youtube.com/@dwwpodcast Main Channel: https://youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? #WaterMembranes #WaterTech #WasteWater #LithiumAbout this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this podcast is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Swirltex, the company represented by Peter Christou, develops unique membrane technologies that optimize filtration processes. The company distinguishes itself by manipulating the buoyancy of liquids to enhance filtration efficiency, which is particularly effective in industries where traditional membranes fail. This technology not only reduces energy consumption by up to 70% but also improves flux rates, offering a sustainable solution particularly useful in sectors like oil and gas, mining, and municipal water treatment.In the podcast, Peter Christou elaborates on Swirltex's innovative approach to membrane technology, which is designed to improve filtration efficiency by manipulating the buoyancy of liquids and integrating air flow. This method reduces the energy consumption of membrane systems by up to 70% and enhances flux rates, making it a game-changer in industries where conventional membranes fail, such as oil and gas and mining. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of this technology for environmental sustainability and how it can reshape industry standards for water treatment and reuse.Unique Insights:Swirltex's approach to increasing filtration efficiency by manipulating liquid buoyancy and using air flows represents a significant innovation in membrane technology.The company's focus on industrial applications where conventional membranes are less effective showcases a strategic move to tap unexplored markets.Their technology not only addresses the efficiency but also significantly cuts down on energy use, marking a step forward in eco-friendly industrial processes.Key Ideas:Innovative Membrane Use: Swirltex's technology uses a combination of air and water flow to prevent fouling and improve the efficiency of membrane filtration.Energy Efficiency: The technology significantly reduces the energy required for operating membranes, which is crucial for sustainability in resource-intensive industries.Market Adaptation: Swirltex has successfully adapted its technology for challenging applications like oil and grease-heavy industries, where traditional membranes struggle.Environmental Impact: By improving the efficiency and reducing the energy consumption of membrane systems, Swirltex contributes to environmental sustainability.Cultural and Operational Shift: The technology developed by Swirltex necessitates a shift in how industries think about and implement filtration systems, moving towards more sustainable and efficient practices.Counter-Intuitive Facts:Energy Reduction in Filtration: Swirltex's technology uses air to manipulate buoyancy, which counter-intuitively reduces energy consumption by 70% compared to traditional methods .Application in Difficult Industries: Unlike typical membrane applications, Swirltex successfully operates in sectors with high fouling risks like oil and grease industries, traditionally challenging for membrane tech .Adaptability to Market Needs: Swirltex's strategic focus on non-traditional markets for membranes allows it to tap into new areas, proving that membranes can be highly effective outside conventional settings like municipal water treatment .Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-swirltex-nearly-crushed-its-founder-before-taking-off/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Reinhard Hübner (CEO of SKion Water) was my guest on the first episode of the Season 5 of the podcast, a bit more than 2 years ago.To this date, it's still one of the most successful episodes of all time (check it out here: https://dww.show/the-7-secrets-of-the-water-company-of-the-year-you-shall-absolutely-steal/)Since then, SKion has led... 13 M&A moves! So, since that first appearance on the podcast, every time I meet Reinhard or his Managing Director, Dirk Brusis, I make it a rule to always question them about their next M&A. This time, it was on record during the recent Global Water Summit (https://www.watermeetsmoney.com/), and I thought you might want to hear about it, as it's a packed 15-minute conversation, with lots (like... LOTS!) of insights inside.About SKion Water:SKion Water is an influential player in both the municipal and industrial water treatment sectors across Europe and North America. The company is pioneering the construction of wastewater recycling plants and deploying advanced technologies for groundwater infiltration of river water. With a budgeted turnover of 1.4 billion for the current year, SKion Water is also involved in global markets, emphasizing sustainability and technical innovation to ensure water security amidst climate change.Episode Summary:In this discussion, Reinhard Hübner of SKion Water outlines the company's strategic responses to the challenges posed by climate change on water resources. He discusses the construction of advanced wastewater recycling plants in Germany, a pioneering effort reflecting a shift from traditional practices due to increasing water scarcity influenced by climate change. Hübner emphasizes the necessity of integrating municipal and industrial water management solutions, highlighting projects in both Europe and North America. The conversation also touches on the company’s growth and innovation strategies, noting a slowdown in acquisitions but continued investment in essential technologies and market expansions. Regulatory challenges like the new PFAS guidelines are addressed with proactive technological solutions, showcasing SKion Water's commitment to sustainable and compliant operations. Throughout the interview, the importance of decentralized operations and the integration of new technologies for efficient water management are discussed as critical elements of SKion Water's approach to addressing the global water crisis.Key IdeasClimate Change and Water Security: Climate change is creating severe impacts on water availability, affecting both natural ecosystems and human needs. SKion Water is working on solutions like the reuse of municipal wastewater to combat these challenges.Municipal Wastewater Reuse in Germany: The company is constructing Germany’s first municipal wastewater reuse plant, which reflects a significant shift in traditional water management practices in the country.Innovation and Growth: Despite a recent slowdown in acquisitions, SKion Water continues to expand strategically, integrating new technologies and markets into its portfolio.Regulatory Challenges and Solutions: Facing new environmental regulations, SKion Water is investing in technologies such as those for on-site PFAS destruction, highlighting the company’s proactive approach to compliance and sustainability.Cultural and Operational Adaptations: The company’s adaptation to various global markets showcases its flexible approach to business, emphasizing understanding and integration before expansion.Stay tuned for more: I recorded 8 pieces at the Summit, so I won't put you ALL in this feed like this one, but I'll share you the key insights in the coming weeks!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
In this special episode of our podcast, Reinhard Hübner from SKion Water joins host Antoine Walter to dive deep into the transformative strategies needed to combat water scarcity brought on by climate change. As the world faces increasingly severe ecological disruptions, SKion Water is leading the charge with innovative water management solutions, including the construction of Germany's first municipal wastewater recycling plant and the adoption of advanced groundwater infiltration technologies. This conversation is not just about the technicalities of water treatment but a forward-looking discussion on the sustainability and adaptation required to secure water resources for future generations. Tune in to understand why water reuse is no longer optional but necessary, and how decentralized operations enhance adaptability across the globe.Links & Resources:European Water Reuse AssociationThames WaterEcopreneurOVIVOFido (Leak Detection Technology)E2metrix (PFAS Treatment)Global Water Summit (Podcast Venue)Quotes:"If you talk security and changing a planet, the security piece is where's the water going to come from for people?" – Reinhard Hübner"We need to come up with technical solutions to make water security happen." – Reinhard HübnerClosing Remarks: Thank you for tuning into this enlightening discussion with Reinhard Hübner. If this conversation about the innovative strategies SKion Water is implementing to ensure water security resonates with you, please remember to rate, follow, and share our podcast. Your engagement helps us bring more insightful discussions like this to you. Don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Johnny Pujol.For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.What can we learn from Johnny's path from selling vacuum cleaners on QVC to rolling out a network of water quality testing across North America and Europe, and in a close future maybe leading SimpleLab to IPO? Well, quite a lot, starting with this seven insight I wrote down:Customer-Driven Innovation:Flexibility in Business Strategy:Maintaining Customer Trust:Leveraging Digital Tools for Marketing and Efficiency:Scaling Through User-Friendly Services:Strategic Phased International Expansion:Building Strong Partnerships:And there you have it, my 7 insights from Johnny Pujol in under 7 minutes, if you disagree with my selection, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (antoine@dww.show), and if you'd like to dive deeper, well listen to the full interview - you can also jump straight into the chapter you'd like, I'm paving the road, now it's on you to take action!Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
What once was a struggling Arsenic Removal company pivoted to a soaring Lab Logistics powerhouse, just about to expand from its US base to Europe! All on the back of... one simple advice you can apply today. Shall we explore this further? (of course, yes!) More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ 🔗 SimpleLab's Website: https://gosimplelab.com/ 🔗 TapScore's Website https://mytapscore.com/ 🔗 Come say Hi to Johnny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnypujol/ 🔗 My conversation with one of Johnny's Investor, John Robinson: https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/ 🔗 The Rethinking Water Conference in New York (and my coverage of the Water Crisis in America): https://dww.show/water-crisis-in-america/ 🔗 My conversation with Megan Glover from 120Water: https://dww.show/whats-hidden-in-your-tap-water-dont-worry-your-utility-doesnt-really-know-better/ 🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: https://youtube.com/@dwwpodcast Main Channel: https://youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 In This Week's Episode 01:19 How to Test your Water 03:57 Who was first, SimpleLab or TapScore? 08:32 SimpleLab's Elevator Pitch 10:39 Pivoting from Arsenic Removal to Lab Logistics 15:24 Who gave SimpleLab a Winning Hint? 16:30 SimpleLab's ugly 2017 & 2018 18:14 What was SimpleLab's first product? 20:01 What did it change to Venture into B2B? 23:13 What is SimpleLab disrupting and how? 24:43 How much do Labs "love" SimpleLab? 26:29 SimpleLab's Business Model 28:07 SimpleLab vs 120Water 29:50 Who's competition to SimpleLab? 32:13 What's TapScore's Bestseller? 34:00 How should a Water Quality Test result look like? 36:49 Will TapScore roll out in Europe? 38:32 What's next for SimpleLab? 40:20 Could SimpleLab sell your Data? 44:02 What is SimpleLab's exit route? 46:15 Rapid Fire Questions 52:56 7 Insights from SimpleLab's CEO & Co-Founder 59:04 Conclusion #WaterTest #LabTest #SimpleLab #WaterTech About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this podcast is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Johnny Pujol's company, SimpleLab started with a focus on arsenic removal technology but pivoted to consumer-focused water quality testing. Their approach utilizes direct-to-consumer engagement, providing testing kits through their platform, mytapscore.com, which allows customers to understand what's in their drinking water. This model turned out to be commercially successful and scalable compared to the original technology-focused venture.Innovations in water technology can drive faster economic growth than traditional industrial investments.The central theme of the conversation is about pivoting a business model from developing arsenic removal technology to providing direct consumer water testing services. This shift occurred when the founders realized that direct engagement with customers about water quality issues through testing was more scalable and sustainable as a business model than their initial focus.Unique Insights:The company capitalized on the specific needs for community engagement and education about water quality, which were not adequately addressed by existing solutions.They utilized direct consumer feedback to pivot their business towards a more sustainable model focused on water testing rather than just technology deployment.The realization that transparency and direct consumer interaction could be a profitable business model in the water quality industry.Key Ideas:Business Pivot: The initial business model focused on a technology for arsenic removal, which was pivoted to consumer water testing due to scalability challenges and market needs.Consumer Engagement: The new business model thrives on high engagement levels with consumers, providing them with detailed information about their water quality, which has shown high demand and customer satisfaction.Market Expansion: The company is exploring further expansion into B2B sectors and international markets, adapting their successful consumer model to new demographics and regulatory environments.Quotes:"We were going to these towns in central Valley, and the best part about it is that when we tell them what's in their drinking water, everyone is listening.""You've made a company; you've filed the paperwork; you have some money in the bank. You've learned a lot.""It's like, suddenly the quiet classroom has come alive.""You should just sell water tests.""And then it just started working right? Like the magical thing happened."Counter-Intuitive Facts:Direct Consumer Testing as a Business Model: Initially, the concept of selling water tests directly to consumers was not seen as a viable business model, but it proved to be highly successful due to unmet market needs.Pivoting from Technology to Service: Pivoting from a complex arsenic removal technology to a simpler consumer service was counterintuitive but resulted in better scalability and market penetration.Community Engagement Over Pure Technology: Focusing on community engagement and education about water quality rather than just the technological solution to contamination proved more effective in building a sustainable business.Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-simplelab-turned-an-arsenic-removal-failure-into-a-lab-logistics-success/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Craig Beckman.For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.Craig has been active in the water sector for over three decades. And even though he has the humility to highlight how "even veterans need to learn" I would trust him to have a bunch of insights to share!So here's my selection of the 7 things to take home from my conversation, and my hours of preparation and post-production, with the CEO of Aqua Membranes.Innovation Needs Grit and Laser FocusSustainability: The New Business CurrencyTech Innovations: Paving the Future of WaterStrategic Investment: Crafting the Perfect BlendMarket Adoption: Bold Moves Make the DifferenceWater's Economic Impact: Undervalued but VitalVision for Change: More Than Just a Drop in the OceanI could have taken more, but I think seven is a good chunk to go out and apply, so here you have it. If you think I've missed one that's even more important than those seven, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (antoine@dww.show). Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
Do you want more Flux, better energy efficiency, or lower maintenance from your Reverse Osmosis membrane? Here's where to start! More #water insights? Connect with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ #️⃣ All the Links Mentioned in this Video #️⃣ Aqua Membranes' YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AquaMembranes  Aqua Membranes' website: https://aquamembranes.com/ Craig's email: craig@aquamembranes.com My "Ultimate" membrane guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RUpiL_x7680 John Robinson discusses Impact Investing: https://dww.show/how-to-mitigate-4-shades-of-water-risk-through-impact-investing/ Chris Wyres presents Evove: https://dww.show/how-to-eradicate-dead-zones-cut-energy-needs-by-80-and-double-lithium-selectivity/ The Leading WaterTech Accelerator, Imagine H2O: https://dww.show/how-to-build-the-world-leading-water-innovation-accelerator-imagine-h2o/ Tom Ferguson's take on Venture Capital in #WaterTech https://dww.show/the-secret-formula-for-profit-in-water-tech-venture-capital/ Zwitterions as a new material for Membranes? https://dww.show/zwitterions-super-powers-could-solve-wastewater-membranes-number-one-problem/ 🎙️ Subscribe and Listen to the Don't Waste Water Podcast HERE 🎙️ Podcast Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dwwpodcast Main Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AntoineWalterDWW Smartlink: https://smartlink.ausha.co/dont-waste-water Website: https://dww.show/podcast/ 👋 SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinewalter1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwwpodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AntoineWalter7 🙋 QUESTION: What would you like me to cover next? ⏰ TIME CODES ⏰ 00:00 In This Week's Episode 01:20 Why Membrane Companies attracted $300 Million of Growth Capital 04:40 What is a Membrane Spacer? 06:37 What's wrong with Membrane Spacers? 08:01 Why do Membrane Majors skip the Spacers? 10:47 Does the PERFECT Membrane Spacer exist? 13:06 How far can you customize a Membrane Spacer? 14:49 How did Craig Beckman join Aqua Membranes? 18:09 Aqua Membranes' first product (and what they learned from it) 20:46 Did Failure nudge them to Give Up? 22:00 Aqua Membranes' product compatibility 23:53 Spacer, 3D-Printing or Membrane Company? 25:15 How to fit within the Membrane Vertical 29:09 How to guarantee performances as a Start-Up 33:03 Establishing Go-To Market Routes 34:59 How to License your Technology 35:57 Ramping up production capacity 36:38 Raising Money 39:25 Working with majors (Pentair & Kurita) 42:17 The pitfalls of branding as a Start-Up 45:09 The perks of start-up accelerators (Imagine H2O, BREW) 48:02 Speeding up market adoption as a Water Tech 54:13 Path to Impact (and Exit) 55:51 Building a Membrane Giant 57:46 Rapid Fire Questions 01:05:10 7 Insights to Take Home 01:10:35 Conclusion #WaterEntrepreneurs #Membranes About this Episode: Welcome to the (don't) Waste Water podcast! In each episode, Antoine Walter from DWW Media shares water, wastewater & water entrepreneurship stories. This show will teach you the water industry like you've never seen it. If you're asking how the water sector will overcome the water crises ahead, this video is for you.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
AquaMembranes is a company that develops novel water treatment technologies, specifically focusing on enhancing the efficiency of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. Their technology is designed to use less energy and improve the lifespan of membranes, thereby providing both environmental and economic benefits to communities and industries in need.The podcast features a deep dive into how water technology, particularly the innovations by AquaMembranes, plays a pivotal role in both safeguarding environmental sustainability and bolstering economic performance. Craig Beckman discusses the company’s approach to improving reverse osmosis membranes which significantly reduces energy consumption and extends membrane life—key factors in reducing operational costs and enhancing water availability. The conversation also covers the broader economic impacts of water management, investment trends in green technologies, and the challenges in scaling and adopting new technologies. Insights into the dynamics between financial goals and sustainability objectives offer a nuanced view of the water tech industry’s future.I hope this teaser makes you crave for more! If you dive into this week's full release of the podcast, you'll learn how:🚀 AquaMembranes' technology uniquely prints spacers directly onto membranes, increasing efficiency and decreasing energy use.📈 The discussion touches on the broader implications of water management on global economies, hinting at water's role as a more critical economic driver than oil.💪 Insights into the challenges and opportunities in scaling water tech innovations, particularly through partnerships and investment in sustainability-focused ventures.We also address and discuss:Water as an Economic Enabler: Water management not only supports sustainability goals but also boosts economic activity by enabling more efficient industrial and municipal water use.Innovative Water Technologies: AquaMembranes’ approach to improving RO membrane systems can dramatically reduce energy requirements and operational costs.Investment and Market Adoption: There's a significant discussion about the need for more robust investment in water technologies and the market challenges related to adopting new systems.Sustainability and Business Growth: The intersection of sustainability goals with business operations is a recurring theme, emphasizing that environmental strategies can also drive business success.Some quotes:"Water enables economies more than oil does." - Craig Beckman"Risk is worth it, fortune favors the brave." - Craig Beckman"Our sole thesis is greenhouse gas reduction." - Investor comment on shifting focus to water technologies"We're doubling down on existing markets." - Craig Beckman"You have to start somewhere." - Craig Beckman on business strategySome more facts we discuss:Despite its critical importance, water is often undervalued economically compared to other resources like oil.Water management technology can lead to significant reductions in energy usage, contrary to the assumption that environmental sustainability always comes at a higher cost.Innovations in water technology can drive faster economic growth than traditional industrial investments.Full Episode: https://dww.show/how-aqua-membranes-prints-three-dimensional-benefits-for-mesh-addicts/Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
New Segment! The 7 insights to take home and act upon from my podcast guest this week: Julie Bliss Mullen.For the ones that don't have a paper and a pen with them during the interview, that's my way to share you my notes.Narrowing the insights shared by Julie to just seven was a challenge, but hey, it's the rule I set, so this week I've got:Focus on Market Needs and Testing HypothesesInnovate Within Niche Markets Before ExpandingCustomer-Driven DevelopmentLeverage Strategic Partnerships and InvestmentsPreparation for Regulatory ComplianceStrategic Hiring and Team BuildingBootstrapping and Careful Financial ManagementAs I said, I could have taken more, but I think seven is a good chunk to go out and apply, so here you have it. If you think I've missed one that's even more important than those seven, come tell me on LinkedIn or by mail (antoine@dww.show). Remember, that episode came to you free of charge, but I would believe not free of value. It takes me quite some time to put all of those together every week, so all I'm asking is for you to help me distribute them! So take this episode, share it with a friend, a colleague, your boss, or your team, and I'll be back with another one next week!Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.
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