What the Project Is
Biofilter Environmental Ltd. – also known as Biofilter Zrt. – is an environmental company dedicated to the bioenergy sector, working daily to ensure that organic waste is 100% recyclable and can be kept in circulation through proper collection and processing. Starting operations in 1990 as a humble two-person company led by founder György Deák, the project was born with a simple idea: to provide reliable and quality service for the long-term protection of the environment. The project is truly all about sustainable development as it collects used cooking oil, food waste, and non-marketable by-products and processes them for various bioenergy applications – aiming for a future where natural resources are preserved and reused.
Main Benefit
Key figures and facts that underline the impact include:
- 8: The number of locations operated nationwide.
- 40: The fleet consisting of collection vehicles that roam the streets.
- 4500: The total number of partners whose waste and by-products are collected.
- 100+: The number of colleagues working daily to ensure partner satisfaction.
Company Background
Launching in 1990 from Budaörs, the project began with the collection and processing of used cooking oil. Over time, the company expanded its horizons, stepping into the collection of food waste and distribution of cooking oils. With a history that now spans over a quarter-century, milestones have been achieved along the way: in 1996, soap powder production took off in Csévharaszt; in 2001, ISO 14001/ISO 9001 certification was obtained; and in 2003, the collection of food waste and biogas utilization started. Later, innovative services such as residential area collection at MOL fuel stations in 2011 and the paperless, digital delivery notes initiative in 2023 have shown that growth and evolution go hand in hand – sometimes quietly, sometimes with a bang.
Operational Excellence
The project operates by collecting used cooking oil, processing it, and importing refined vegetable oils that supply biodiesel plants both in Hungary and in neighboring countries. In addition, food waste, expired food (including animal by-products), non-marketable animal by-products, and vegetable waste are collected, processed, and transported to biogas production facilities. This operational structure not only supports the bioenergy sector but also ensures that obsolete materials find a new life as alternative energy sources. Daily activities illustrate the project’s operational excellence – a smooth process that turns potential waste into invaluable raw material, propelling a cycle of renewable energy and environmental safety.
Sustainability and Future
Sustainability is at the heart and soul of the project. The operation principle in the bioenergy sector focuses on producing alternative energies that replace finite fossil fuels and the hazards associated with nuclear energy, ensuring continuous sustainable development. Renewable energies like solar, water, and wind are complemented by the innovative utilization of first-generation plant energies. With each passing day, the project’s commitment to sustainability strengthens and invites conversations about the environment, responsibility, and the future of energy production… There is a clear vision that long-term environmental protection lies on the path of recycling organic waste into life-enhancing energy.
Project Impact
- Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7)
- Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (SDG 9)
- Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11)
- Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12)
- Climate Action (SDG 13)
Looking Forward
As the project continues to evolve, the commitment to environmental protection remains unwavering. With a dynamic approach that embraces technology and digital communication – evident in the transition to paperless delivery notes in 2023 – Biofilter Environmental Ltd. sets its sights on a future where organic waste is not just disposed of, but transformed for a greater good. Operating across eight locations with a fleet of 40 vehicles and supported by a dedicated team of over 100 colleagues, the company has established a robust network that collects waste and by-products from 4500 partners nationwide. Every day, this network works diligently to turn potential waste into valuable resources, reinforcing the belief that with the right processes, even waste can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable energy landscape.
