‘PITCHFEST 2020 SERIES’ EP. 7 - JOHN GRADEK FROM WATER WARRIORS

In episode 7 of the Ocean Impact Podcast ‘Pitchfest 2020 Series’ Nick Chiarelli speaks with John Gradek, CEO of Water Warriors.

Water Warriors, a Finalist in The Ocean Impact Pitchfest 2020, are a US based startup that offers a circular economy solution to phosphorus and nitrogen pollution. Phosphorus is among the world’s most important chemical elements, and it benefits us in a staggering number of ways.

Most phosphorus production is in concentrated phosphoric acids for agriculture fertilisers where high levels of phosphorus runoff from agriculture can cause devastating consequences for waterways, wildlife and the ocean. Notably, excessive phosphorus and nitrogen pollution can lead to rapid growth in algae and the process of eutrophication where water bodies become oxygen-starved, algae-filled dead zones. These impacts extend into coastlines and open oceans where coral reefs (eg the Great Barrier Reef) and important economic regions (eg the Gulf of Mexico) are also impacted.

Water Warrior's flagship product, Poseidon Pellets, was developed in conjunction with the US EPA, and is an insoluble pellet that absorbs phosphorus and ammonia on contact, improving water quality, preventing nutrient runoff and reducing toxic algae blooms. Once the pellets reach nutrient capacity, they can be used as fertiliser, returning the phosphorus to the land and reducing reliance on unsustainable sources of fertiliser. The primary markets for Waste Warriors are currently farmers (addressing agricultural runoff), and wastewater treatment plants.

For more information on Water Warriors visit: https://www.waterwarriorsinc.com/

To follow Water Warriors on LinkedIn visit: https://www.linkedin.com/company/waterwarriors/