Zincovery

Zincovery is a New Zealand-based clean technology company that specializes in sustainable, low-carbon zinc recycling. Originating as a spin-out from the University of Canterbury, the company provides a circular economy solution for the global steel industry by transforming hazardous industrial waste, such as furnace dust and acid waste, into high-purity zinc. By utilizing a proprietary hydrometallurgical process, Zincovery significantly reduces the environmental footprint associated with traditional metal smelting. The company is currently scaling its operations from lab-scale research to a commercial demonstration facility in Christchurch. With a focus on decarbonizing the zinc supply chain, Zincovery has attracted significant investment from venture capital firms and government innovation grants. Their work not only addresses waste management challenges but also produces valuable co-products, positioning them as a key player in the transition toward a net-zero industrial future.

Mission: To decarbonize zinc recycling and contribute to a net-zero zinc industry by 2050.

• Winner of the 2020 C-Prize Challenge
• Proprietary process uses 70% less energy than traditional smelting
• Achieved up to 95% reduction in emissions compared to conventional methods
• Successfully transitioned from university research to a pilot plant facility
• Supported by major investors including Icehouse Ventures and Outset Ventures

Sources

• KiwiNet: Zincovery Success Story
• NZ Entrepreneur: Zincovery Profile
• Callaghan Innovation: Zincovery Profile
• Newsroom NZ: Deep-tech startup raises $3m