Halocycle, a Hull-based technology firm, has made significant strides in the recycling industry with its advanced recycling techniques for PVC and other plastics.
- Recognised as KPMG’s UK Tech Innovator 2024, Halocycle aims to tackle the global plastics issue with innovative solutions.
- Dr Henrietta Boyd, CEO of Halocycle, shares her experiences and insights following the company’s recent accolade.
- Halocycle is committed to creating a more sustainable future by focusing on circular lifecycle processes to mitigate plastic waste.
- The company’s success at the KPMG competition has opened up new opportunities and expanded their network within the tech industry.
Halocycle, based in Hull, is at the forefront of innovation in PVC and chlorine-containing plastic recycling. Having recently been named KPMG’s UK Tech Innovator 2024, the firm is striving to provide substantial solutions to the plastic crisis using cutting-edge technology. The company’s methods centre around creating a circular lifecycle for plastics, significantly reducing landfill waste and environmental leakage.
Dr Henrietta Boyd, CEO and co-founder of Halocycle, spoke about the impact of their recent recognition. She noted that winning the KPMG award brought great exposure and opportunities, connecting them with fellow finalists and expanding their network. Dr Boyd highlighted that such recognition brought them international attention, including interest from a German firm seeking to recycle PVC.
The KPMG competition identified Halocycle as a promising innovator, a testament to the company’s dedication and the promise of its technology. Dr Boyd encourages other businesses to participate in such competitions, which help refine pitches and offer valuable feedback from expert observers.
Dr Boyd shared insights from the Global Tech Innovator final, describing it as a professional and rewarding experience both personally and professionally. She humorously recounted sharing an unexpected personal moment of having a makeup artist, pointing to the international exposure and media experience gained.
With sustainability as a core principle, Halocycle has embedded the ESG agenda in its operations. Dr Boyd, who has a long-standing interest in environmental issues, noted that sustainability has now climbed to board-level discussions, enhancing their growth journey. The firm was founded with the mission of resolving the plastic waste dilemma, integrating circularity and sustainability deeply into their business model.
Looking forward, Halocycle plans to raise funds to expand its team and build its first commercial-scale plant in northern England by 2025. They are also considering further expansion into Europe, recognising the supportive legislative environment there. Dr Boyd advises emerging businesses in the environmental sector to consider B Corp certification, which provides useful guidelines and access to a supportive community.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr Boyd emphasises the importance of maintaining personal connections despite the busy nature of leading a pioneering firm, suggesting that friends offer a valuable perspective.
Halocycle’s innovative approaches drive the PVC recycling industry forward, paving the way for a sustainable future.
