North Holland's DOPS Secures €5 Million for Waste Technology Enhancement
Haarlem, Thursday, 31 July 2025.
ROM InWest and partners invest €5 million in DOPS Recycling Technologies to advance innovative waste processing, illustrating the pivotal role of a supportive local innovation ecosystem.
Investment Highlights and Ecosystem Support
This summer marked a significant milestone for DOPS Recycling Technologies, a company based in North Holland, specializing in innovative waste processing technologies. ROM InWest, along with InnovationQuarter and other private partners, invested €5 million to propel DOPS into its next phase of operational development. This investment underscores not only the importance of DOPS’s innovations but also highlights the essential support provided by the North Holland ecosystem. Reynier de Monchy, investment manager at ROM InWest, emphasized the collaboration’s role in addressing societal challenges related to waste processing, sustainable energy, and circular raw materials [1][2].
Advancing Waste Processing Technology
DOPS Recycling Technologies has developed a cutting-edge process called Direct Carbon Immobilization (DCI). This technology converts hard-to-process waste into reusable products like synthetic gas (syngas) and activated carbon, aiming to operate with significantly lower CO2 emissions than traditional methods. Such advancements are crucial not only for reducing environmental impact but also for providing sustainable energy solutions amidst challenges like grid congestion in the Netherlands [1][3].
Strategic Development and Funding
With the fresh capital, DOPS aims to transition their technology from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 to levels 7-8, which involves validating on a larger scale and preparing for the first commercial plant. The strategic development plan includes collaborating with an industrial partner such as a brick factory or waste processor—entities actively seeking alternatives to natural gas. These advancements are largely attributed to the consistent support from regional programs and funding from PIM North Holland and the Innovation Fund North Holland [1][2][3].
Implications for Green Innovation and the Future
ROM InWest’s investment alongside its partners exemplifies the role of a well-coordinated ecosystem in driving green innovation. According to Robin van Beijnum, business developer at ROM InWest, while other technologies stall due to heavy investment requirements and reliance on specific raw materials, DOPS’s step-by-step scaling strategy is precisely what is needed for growth in a fossil-free industry. This investment not only facilitates immediate technological advancements but also sets the groundwork for broader adoption of sustainable practices, reinforcing the Netherlands as a leader in green technology [1][2].