everwave

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Overview

Everwave is a German clean tech impact company specializing in removing waste from rivers before it reaches the oceans, thereby preventing plastic pollution and contributing to cleaner waters globally. It was founded in 2018 by Clemens Feigl, Marcella Hansch, and Dr. Tilman Floehr. The company is based in Aachen, Germany, and employs innovative technology, including AI-driven tools and plastic credit systems, to provide measurable impacts toward a sustainable future. Everwave has garnered significant funding over time, including recent contributions from Viessmann Generations Group and other notable investors.

Recent Developments

  • August 2025: Everwave secured new growth financing to expand its operations globally, especially in Southeast Asia, aiming to solidify its role as a leading European impact company. Viessmann Generations Group led the funding round as a strategic partner, alongside other investors 1 2.
  • May 2025: The company surpassed the milestone of collecting over two million kilograms of waste from rivers globally. This significant achievement reflects Everwave's ongoing commitment to environmental conservation 3.
  • April 2025: Everwave, in collaboration with Viessmann Generations Group, kicked off a strategic project aimed at establishing a presence in Southeast Asian markets, enhancing their infrastructure for waste collection and recycling in the region 4.
  • September 2024: Everwave partnered with STADLER Anlagenbau GmbH to develop a mobile sorting container, SortX, designed to handle plastic waste in rivers effectively. This collaboration marks a step forward in combating plastic pollution with innovative technological solutions 5.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding DateDecember 2018
HeadquartersAachen, Germany
FoundersClemens Feigl, Marcella Hansch, Dr. Tilman Floehr
IndustryEnvironmental Services
Number of Employees40
Key InvestorsViessmann Generations Group, KSK-Wagniskapital, SistaAct

Early History

Everwave started as Pacific Garbage Screening, founded by Marcella Hansch in 2018. The inspiration for the company was Hansch's experience while diving and recognizing the extent of ocean pollution. The company initially focused on developing technologies to intercept and recycle plastic waste from rivers to prevent it from reaching the oceans. Over the past few years, Everwave has evolved, adopting a holistic approach to tackle riverine plastic waste, incorporating both technological and ecological strategies. By 2020, Everwave shifted its focus more towards rivers, understanding that they are a major pathway for plastic to enter the oceans.

Company Profile and Achievements

Everwave employs a business model focused on high-impact environmental technology. Key strategies include:

  • Plastic Credits: Introduced as a mechanism for businesses to offset their plastic footprint, where each credit corresponds to the removal of one kilogram of waste. This system provides a transparent and impactful way for corporations to engage in environmental responsibility.
  • AI Technology: Utilizes artificial intelligence for waste detection and analysis, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of their cleanup operations. AI aids in identifying and targeting plastic waste hotspots, ensuring focused and successful missions 6.
  • Environmental Collaborations: The company is involved in various international projects, working with local teams to build and maintain recycling infrastructure in regions like Thailand and Albania. These efforts not only facilitate efficient waste management but also create local employment opportunities.
  • Innovative Solutions: Developed technologies such as the CollectiX garbage boats and the SortX mobile sorting containers to effectively manage river waste on-site, facilitating immediate processing and recycling.

Current Operations and Market Position

Everwave is recognized as a leading player in environmental services, specifically focusing on waste management and pollution prevention. The company's strategic initiatives in Southeast Asia highlight their commitment to expanding their operational reach and impact. Their competitive edge lies in combining cutting-edge technology with grassroots ecological projects, making them a pioneer in sustainable waste management solutions. Recent investments have bolstered Everwave's capabilities to innovate and contribute significantly to the global circular economy and environmental conservation efforts.

Conclusion

Everwave is making noticeable strides in transforming riverine waste management, thereby playing a pivotal role in reducing plastic pollution on a global scale. Their continued focus on technological innovation and international collaborations sets a strong foundation for future growth and impact, aligning with global sustainability goals. As the company scales its operations further, it remains poised to become a central figure in environmental services and impact investing sectors, offering scalable and sustainable solutions to pressing ecological challenges.

References

  1. EU Startups Article
  2. Tech EU Article
  3. Everwave Company Site
  4. Startuprise Report
  5. Waste Management World
  6. Everwave Official Website