A Taiwan firm specializing in transforming household waste into high-performance materials was recently named a 2015 Technology Pioneer by World Economic Forum, the first time for a local outfit to claim the prestigious honor.
Miniwiz Ltd.’s groundbreaking approach incorporates proprietary technologies, in-house engineering and architecture practices to create a new generation of resources utilizing recycled electronic and food waste, packaging and plastics.
One of the company’s more well-known solutions was employed in EcoARK, a major attraction during the 2010 Taipei International Flora Exposition. The nine-story-high facility comprised 1.5 million recycled polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, bottles.
Miniwiz CEO Arthur Huang said the Taipei City-based outfit owes its know-how and growth to Taiwan’s advanced and efficient industrial sectors, especially support from the highly experienced, powerful and well-connected industrial recycling chain.
“The award underscores the ingenuity of Taiwan’s high-tech industries and the kind of contribution they can make through innovation. It is worthy recognition of the country’s recycling sector.”
According to Huang, the firm has been working to make waste a desirable resource with minimal environmental impact since its establishment in 2008. “At the same time, we are striving to influence the way manufacturing and design is carried out,” he said.
“Recycling is fast emerging as a potential laden industry worldwide. Given Taiwan’s high-tech prowess, I can see the country playing a key role for at least the next decade.”
A total of 49 companies from 10 countries were named by the WEF as pioneers in information technology; life sciences and health; and energy, environment and infrastructure. Past winners include Agios Pharmaceuticals Inc., Airbnb Inc., EcoNation N.V., Google Inc., Tobii Technology A.B. and Twitter Inc.
Launched in 2000, the annual award recognizes early stage companies in the design, development and deployment of new technologies expected to significantly impact business and society.
