From Environmental Consultant to Pioneering Technology Founder: The Story of Arqlite and its Founder’s Mission to Tackle the Plastic Crisis

The plastic crisis is an escalating environmental issue that poses serious threats to wildlife, ecosystems, and human health. While emerging technologies offer promising solutions, it is essential to consider the potential environmental impacts and unintended consequences of these new approaches. Therefore, significant changes are needed in both the production and consumption of plastics and improvements in waste management and recycling systems to effectively address this crisis.

Sebastian Sajoux, the founder and CEO of Arqlite, is leading the charge in tackling the plastic crisis with his innovative and sustainable approach. With extensive experience as an environmental consultant in Buenos Aires, Sebastian gained valuable insights in developing and implementing low-carbon solutions, which he has leveraged in his mission to combat the plastic crisis through Arqlite.

In 2015, Sajoux founded Arqlite, which focused on transforming these difficult-to-recycle plastics into something useful. The company’s first product, Smart Gravel, was a basic material made from recycled plastics that could be used in a variety of applications. This proved that there was potential for these plastics to be used in other ways besides being sent to a landfill or incinerated.

Smart Gravel, an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mineral gravel, is a lightweight, pH-neutral filler that is an excellent construction material. It can also be used as a growth medium in hydroponics, as a drainage layer for potting and many more. Being lighter and easier to work with than traditional gravel, it provides a more convenient option. Furthermore, using Smart Gravel can aid in earning LEED points for building certification, as it is a recycled material.

Arqlite then expanded its product line by developing Homogenized Repro Pellets (HPR), a premium quality 100% recycled plastic resin suitable for use in various plastic products. By utilizing these pellets in the production of plastic goods, companies can reduce the amount of plastic waste that goes to landfills. Because Homogenized Repro Pellets are made from recycled materials, they are usually less costly than virgin plastic resins, which makes them a cost-effective choice for businesses seeking sustainable solutions for their plastic waste.

Pushing the limits on its technology and always willing to explore new markets, Arqlite recently developed the EcoPot. This eco-friendly and sleek product complements any space with its minimalistic design. The pot is manufactured entirely using Arqlite’s HRP, made from recycled single-use plastics, helping to reduce environmental waste. The Arqlite Eco Pot is more durable than traditional pots, making it resilient against accidental impacts. The pot is made using locally sourced discarded plastics, further supporting the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Arqlite provides a sustainable and proven alternative to chemical recycling and other more polemic technologies. Arqlite’s innovative technology and process transform hard-to-recycle plastics into valuable resources without the need for high-temperature heating or the use of toxic chemicals. Arqlite is a local and easy-to-scale solution, with investments starting at $2M, which is significantly less than the $100M required for other technologies.

Unlike chemical recycling, Arqlite’s process is not energy-intensive and does not produce greenhouse gas emissions or other pollutants. Furthermore, Arqlite’s technology can handle a wider range of plastic types, including flexible packaging, one of the most common types of plastic waste.

Arqlite’s approach to tackling the plastic crisis is focused on reducing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy. Rather than continuing to produce and use single-use plastics, Arqlite aims to transform plastic waste into valuable resources. As a result, Arqlite’s technology has the potential to change the recycling and waste management industry for the better, creating a more sustainable future for the industry and the planet. For more information, visit https://arqlite.com/