Sewage sludge is often viewed as a waste problem. HBI sees it differently: as a resource. The South Tyrolean company has developed a multi-step process that gives wastewater residues a new purpose. Instead of simply disposing of or spreading them directly, the process recovers clean water, renewable energy, and valuable nutrients such as phosphorus, for reuse in agriculture. Additionally, the plant reduces final waste by 95 %. What would otherwise be waste becomes part of a circular system.
Founder Daniele Basso began his journey as a researcher in the unibz labs here at NOI, where he later went on to found his start-up. From the very beginning, we have supported him in refining his business idea, setting up an R&D project, and connecting with key players in the field. In 2021, HBI installed its first industrial module at the Bolzano wastewater treatment plant – a major milestone.

Discover the full HBI story in the video: