Viridis Research, H&M Group pilot wastewater treatment technology

Vancouver-based Viridis Research has completed a pilot project in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in partnership with H&M Group and three textile mills to address the issue of water pollution in the textile industry. Its aim is to support water recycling and reuse within factory operations. The recent pilot tested Viridis’ electrochemical oxidation technology on wastewater generated at different stages of the dyeing process.

During the trial, the system was used on wastewater from dye baths, equalization tanks, conventional treatment plant output and reverse osmosis reject streams. This covered some of the most polluted water flows within a dyehouse. Viridis reported that the technology reduced color and organic pollutants to targeted levels, achieving between 99.56 and 99.94 percent color removal from dye baths. The company also stated that certain processing chemicals were recovered and that treated water was reused in later dyeing cycles.

The approach focuses on two key outcomes. First, it reduces the need for fresh water by recycling treated dyehouse water back into production. Second, it lowers pollution discharge by breaking down dyes and related chemicals directly at the source.

“It was inspiring to witness the leadership our textile mill partners are showing in driving sustainable business practices and water conservation efforts,” said Macarena Cataldo, CEO and founder of Viridis. “Working alongside H&M Group and these mill partners, we have demonstrated that a more responsible future for fashion is achievable.”