Innovation

Healix, launched by Marcel Alberts in 2020-2021, pioneers the fight against global plastic pollution by transforming discarded maritime and agricultural plastics into high-quality, circular plastic granules. Initially focused on marine debris such as nets and ropes, Healix has expanded its vision to include agricultural waste, repurposing it into valuable plastic granules. These plastic granules, which are small plastic particles used in various industrial processes, are essential in manufacturing new plastic products. This innovative approach directly contributes to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, demonstrating significant advancements in recycling technologies that enhance industrial processes and promote sustainable infrastructure.

The innovative recycling process developed by Healix involves techniques where plastics are transformed into granules through a series of steps, including chopping, washing, melting, and refining. This recycles waste and enhances it to a higher-quality material ready for new uses. "We have developed a process where the plastics come in bales, are chopped, washed, melted, and finally turned into high-quality granules," explains Sjoerdje Meijers, head of marketing & communications at Healix, emphasizing the efficiency and effectiveness of their technology, which is specially developed to treat difficult-to-recycle plastics such as nets and ropes, in creating a circular economy for plastics.

This process, designed by Marcel Alberts and operational manager Stefan Beckers, achieves such a high standard of cleanliness and quality that recycled plastic can replace virgin materials. Meijer's states, "Marcel and Stefan created the technology with the aim to get it so clean that it can replace virgin plastic. We can now make ropes out of old ropes with up to 50% recycled material. That didn't exist before." This mission-driven innovation reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, aiming to transform waste management from traditional linear methods to a sustainable circular approach, aligning with global environmental objectives and setting a benchmark for the industry.

Inspiration

The inspiration for Healix stemmed from Marcel Alberts’ profound concern for the environment. Drawing from his extensive experience in the synthetic fibre industry and the eye-opening impact of environmental documentaries. Marcel transitioned from his role at DSM, where he managed sales of Dyneema, one of the strongest fibres in the world, to establishing his own company, Eurofibers, as a distribution partner for DSM.

After selling Eurofibers, Marcel found time to reflect. His deepening awareness of plastic pollution, informed by his industry experience, led him to pursue an impactful new venture. This introspective period during the COVID crisis provided the perfect opportunity for Marcel to channel his knowledge and passion into founding Healix, focusing on innovative solutions for plastic waste.

Driven by the urgency to address environmental challenges, Marcel envisioned Healix as an innovative business that would transform waste management practices from linear disposal methods to a sustainable circular model. Meijers recalls, "Marcel said, 'I want to do something about plastic pollution. I know a lot about nets, ropes, and fiber plastics. I don't know what I'm going to do yet, but I want to do something'," highlighting the innovative spirit and technical skill at the core of Healix.

The founding of Healix was not just about launching a new business but was deeply rooted in Marcel’s commitment to sustainable development. It reflects his vision of reducing plastic pollution, advocating for systemic changes in material valuation and utilization, and fostering a scalable model of environmental stewardship. This mission-driven approach has positioned Healix as a transformative force in the industry, aiming to set new benchmarks for sustainability and responsible production.

Overall impact

The impact of Healix’s recycling initiative is profound, affecting various aspects of business, society, and the environment. By establishing a state-of-the-art production facility in Maastricht, Healix has significantly advanced its operational capabilities. This initiative highlights the company's dedication to SDG 13: Climate Action by reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with virgin plastic production and supports SDG 14: Life Below Water by preventing plastic pollution in marine environments.

Societally, Healix’s efforts contribute to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting sustainable waste management practices and enhancing urban environmental health. The company’s operations have created local employment opportunities and fostered a culture of sustainability within the community. Reflecting on the journey, Meijers stated, "Seeing everything happening from just an idea to a factory was really weird; it showed me that you can realize the smallest idea in your mind if you just go for it."

On the environmental front, Healix’s approach has had a short-term effect of drastically reducing the volume of plastic waste entering oceans and landfills, directly benefiting marine life and ecosystems. This substantial reduction in pollution demonstrates Healix's commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting a healthier planet. Over the long term, these efforts are expected to decrease the reliance on virgin plastic production and lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global environmental conservation goals.

Evidence of Healix's impact is reflected in its solid recycling operations, the success of its Maastricht facility, and strategic partnerships with environmental organizations. These achievements feature Healix’s commitment to sustainability and effective implementation of a visionary environmental stewardship model.

Business benefit

Healix's innovative recycling approach has significantly improved its business operations, establishing a strong position in the sustainable materials market. The firm's ability to convert waste plastics into high-value granules addresses critical environmental issues while providing a considerable business advantage. This strategic positioning has enabled Healix to tap into new markets, particularly among industries keen on reducing their environmental impact, contributing to SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Partnerships, especially collaborations with organizations like Ocean Cleanup, have contributed to Healix’s business success. These partnerships have expanded the supply chain and bolstered Healix's operational capabilities, ensuring a steady stream of materials essential for its recycling processes. Such collaborations enhance Healix’s production stability and amplify its impact, aligning with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. By fostering these alliances, Healix strengthens its market position and emphasizes the economic viability of sustainable practices.

Marcel Alberts’ extensive network and deep industry knowledge have been fundamental in steering the market and expanding Healix's customer base. Leveraging his reputation and expertise, Marcel has facilitated Healix’s entry into competitive markets, fostering trust and collaborative opportunities that drive business growth. This network has been central in securing over €10 million in seed financing, which has fueled the development of their state-of-the-art production plant in Maastricht.

Through its innovative practices, Healix demonstrates that sustainable business models can achieve significant environmental and economic returns. By integrating green technologies into its core operations, Healix promotes sustainability and ensures that it remains a competitive and forward-thinking player in the industry. This approach contributes to solving the global challenge of plastic waste and demonstrates the profitability and scalability of sustainable solutions, aligning with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Social and environmental benefit

Healix's innovative approach to recycling plastics, particularly from maritime and agricultural sources, marks a significant advancement in societal and environmental sustainability. By converting waste into high-value polymers, Healix reduces the dependency on virgin plastics, which are resource-intensive and environmentally damaging to produce. This process decreases the extraction of new materials and minimizes the overall environmental footprint associated with plastic production, aligning with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Environmentally, Healix’s recycling efforts directly impact reducing marine pollution, addressing SDG 14: Life Below Water. By repurposing plastics from fisheries and agriculture, which are significant contributors to oceanic debris, Healix helps mitigate the risk posed to marine life and habitats. This proactive approach plays a critical role in preserving marine biodiversity and supporting the health of ocean ecosystems, which are central to maintaining the planet’s ecological balance. The reduced pollution directly benefits marine life and ecosystems, demonstrating a clear commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting a healthier planet.

On a societal level, Healix’s operations stimulate local economies by creating jobs in the waste management and recycling sectors, supporting SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. These roles offer employment and foster a culture of sustainability within communities, enhancing awareness and participation in environmental conservation efforts. The company’s educational and community engagement initiatives further raise awareness about the importance of recycling and sustainability, promoting a culture of environmental stewardship.

Furthermore, Healix’s strategic focus on transforming waste into valuable resources illustrates how sustainable practices can lead to substantial societal benefits and environmental conservation. Their efforts align closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Climate Action (SDG 13) and Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9). These initiatives showcase how business innovations can effectively support global sustainability objectives, setting a powerful example for businesses worldwide in the pursuit of a more sustainable future.

Interview

Sjoerdje Meijers, Head of Marketing & Communications