DH Eco Solutions

Company background

Founded by Darren Hicks in 2022, DH Eco Solutions is a dynamic start up dedicated to addressing domestic and commercial waste management challenges through innovative solutions.

The company, anticipating employing seven people within its first year, aims to revolutionise waste management with its flagship product, the EcoStamp Waste Compactor. With a strong commitment to sustainability, DH Eco Solutions’ ambitions align closely with the net zero objectives set by East Ayrshire Council.

Business Gateway support

The journey of DH Eco Solutions from concept to a high-growth start up business has been significantly bolstered by the Business Gateway team. From the outset, Business Gateway provided comprehensive support to Darren Hicks, aiding in the development of a robust business plan and aligning the company’s operations with net zero objectives—a critical priority for East Ayrshire Council in its business support initiatives.

As Darren says:

“Business Gateway’s support has been instrumental in turning my vision into reality.

Their guidance in business planning and commitment to sustainability has empowered us to create a product that not only addresses waste management issues but also aligns with the broader goal of achieving net zero emissions.”

The EcoStamp Waste Compactor

The EcoStamp Waste Compactor is designed to address the pressing issue of waste overflow in domestic and commercial settings.

With a focus on ease of use and accessibility, the product is portable, lightweight, and electronically operated. It is capable of compressing waste in standard 190-240l wheelie bins, reducing waste volume by up to two-thirds and is an innovative approach that offers a practical solution to the challenges posed by infrequent waste collection schedules.

Environmental and societal benefits

The EcoStamp aligns closely with the net zero agenda by offering several key environmental and societal benefits:

1. Reduced Carbon Footprint: By extending the interval between waste collections, the EcoStamp compactor helps decrease the number of trips made by waste collection vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions.
2. Enhanced Civic Health and Hygiene: By minimising waste overflow, the product reduces the risk of infection from rodents and seagulls, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
3. Mitigation of Fly Tipping: The efficient management of waste within bins reduces the incidence of fly tipping, leading to improved cleanliness and reduced environmental contamination.
4. Financial Savings: Users benefit from reduced costs associated with frequent waste disposal and overflow management.
5. Effective Recycling: By compressing waste, the EcoStamp compactor facilitates more efficient recycling processes and reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.

Market readiness and future plans

The EcoStamp waste compactor prototype was developed with significant contributions from Interface, Scottish Enterprise, and Robert Gordon University Aberdeen and is positioned at a price point which makes it an affordable solution for both domestic and commercial customers.

DH Eco Solutions is now focused on transitioning from prototype to market-ready product, with plans for a UK-wide launch. The company’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its adherence to real living wage agreements and its ongoing efforts to secure patent protection for the EcoStamp waste compactor.

Conclusion

DH Eco Solutions exemplifies how innovative start ups can contribute to environmental sustainability while addressing practical waste management challenges.

With the support of Business Gateway, Darren Hicks has not only developed a viable business model but also created a product that supports East Ayrshire Council’s net zero objectives. The EcoStamp waste compactor stands as a testament to the positive impact of entrepreneurial spirit combined with strategic business support.

By targeting and solving waste issues at the source, DH Eco Solutions is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.