Nurox Hydrothermal and Interwaste have announced a partnership. Backed by support from the medical sector, including Douglas Pharmaceuticals, the initiative will deploy hydrothermal processing technology, with the first facility scheduled for 2026.
A Cleaner Alternative to Offshore Incineration
New Zealand has long relied on sending toxic materials overseas for incineration due to limited domestic options. Nurox’s system promises a homegrown solution.
Using only heat, water, and air, the technology breaks down harmful substances such as PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and industrial residues into clean water, inert materials, and acetic acid. Unlike incineration, it avoids harmful emissions or by-products.
“We’re excited to join forces with Interwaste to bring our novel waste management solution to market,” said Duncan Stewart, co-founder and CEO of Nurox. “Hazardous waste generation and disposal is an enormous problem worldwide that can pose significant health and environmental risks if not treated properly.
There is a global need for more sustainable processes in how we manage hazardous wastes and this is a particular problem in New Zealand which has limited technology alternatives to dispose of many of our most hazardous waste streams.”
Partnership Goals and Industry Support
Stewart added that the technology provides “a cleaner alternative to incineration—protecting the environment and enabling the recovery of valuable resources.”
Kelvin Hyland, CEO of Tennex Group, Interwaste’s parent company, said the move aligns with both innovation and regulatory demands. “By partnering with Nurox, we’re bringing to market a powerful new tool that supports a circular economy, reducing New Zealand’s reliance on offshore disposal. This partnership reflects our shared commitment in innovation and sustainability, and we’re proud to work with Nurox as we pave the way together to a more sustainable approach to waste management.”
The plan has also drawn endorsement from Douglas Pharmaceuticals. “As a business, we’re always looking for ways to improve the sustainability and resilience across our supply chains and we welcome any new innovation that leads to better environmental outcomes,” said CFO Kent Durbin.
Future Outlook for Waste Management Innovation
The first plant is due in 2026, with a second to follow, giving Interwaste clients across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing access to the technology. Nurox’s model—based on licensing and Equipment-as-a-Service—aims for efficient global scaling.
Nurox is founded in Auckland and is run by a scientific team led by Professor Saeid Baroutian and COO Alex Hannon. Together with Interwaste, the company hopes to position New Zealand as a leader in sustainable hazardous waste management.