Our goal
The goal of neopren.bg is to promote good practices in the manufacturing of neoprene products in Europe as well as the use of more eco-friendly materials. We aim to provide more information about neoprene which is one of the most innovative and increasingly popular materials in the world in the world of water sports apparel but also fashion and other diverse industry sectors.
Awareness
In the same time we observe serious lack of knowledge of the specifics of this material and its types and applications depending on the concrete product. Therefore we took on the initiative to create an international information platform, which would provide answers to all kinds of questions related to neoprene.
Responsible towards nature
Another important goal of our association is to find a solution for extending the life of old neoprene products which many people throw at the garbage. Neoprene is one of the materials with the least collection for recycling or upcycling in other products after the end of its lifecycle and our team has set an important goal to analyze an adequate and long lasting solution to this issue at a European level.
European network of companies
Our team offers free consultations via phone, e-mail or personal meetings to everyone who has an interest to learn more about this material. In this way we believe we would increase the awareness of the people and will ensure more adequate and sustainable use of the neoprene and the importance of the prevention of its disposal at landfills and its reuse and recycling. We are trying to reach out to as many people as possible who are interested in neoprene for one reason or another. The final goal is the creation of a European network of companies, NGOs and even state agencies which have something to do with neoprene.
Projects for which we have been approved
Project 2020-551395
In May 2021 WavErest EOOD received approval of the project 2020/551395 „Neoprene recycling for circular economy: the WavErest method“. The project will be implemented with the financial support of the Norwegian Financial Mechanism, Green Industry Innovation focus area, in the frame of the Business Development, Innovation and SMEs Programme.
The main objective of the project is to invest in an innovative green machinery for neoprene recycling, which is going to assist us in diversification of our product line.
Specialized equipment for recycling neoprene material using innovative technology shall be purchased.
The approved project budget is 748 250 EUR and the amount of the grant is 450 000 EUR.
Expected outputs from the implementation of the project and the implementation of the innovative technology for recycling of neoprene are as follows:
- 1 new fully operational production line for neoprene recycling;
- 1 new green product from recycled neoprene developed and introduced on the market;
- 5 new jobs created;
- 1 measure implemented to decrease CO2 emissions;
- 1 measure implemented to re-use waste from the own production.
Project 2023-372950
WaveErest EOOD, in its capacity as Beneficiary under Grant Agreement No. 2023/372950, entitled “Innovative Technology for Processing of Recycled Neoprene”, announces a procedure for the selection of a contractor for the following scope of work: “Supply, Installation, Testing and Commissioning of One Recycled Steam Boiler.”
In May 2023, WaveErest EOOD signed an agreement for the implementation of Project No. 2023/372950, entitled “Innovative Technology for Processing of Recycled Neoprene”.
The project is funded by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014–2021, under the priority area “Green Industry Innovation” of the “Business Development, Innovation and SMEs” Programme.
The main objectives of the project are:
- To invest in innovative green technology for the production of recycled neoprene with varying physical and mechanical properties;
- To introduce an innovative, optimised cutting technology for recycled neoprene, significantly expanding the company’s product portfolio;
- To substantially diversify the company’s product portfolio by introducing a wide range of high-quality, environmentally sustainable products made entirely from recycled neoprene;
- To enhance the company’s competitiveness and technological innovation capabilities;
- To raise public awareness and encourage proactive behaviour aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of neoprene-based manufacturing processes.
The total approved project budget amounts to EUR 224,848, of which EUR 175,992 is provided as grant funding.
Implementation period: May 2023 – April 2024.
The “Business Development, Innovation and SMEs in Bulgaria” Programme, funded under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014–2021, aims to contribute to the overall objectives of the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014–2021, particularly by reducing economic and social disparities within the European Economic Area (EEA) and strengthening bilateral relations between Norway and the beneficiary countries of the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.
The Programme seeks to promote value creation and sustainable development within Bulgaria’s business sector. It focuses on encouraging and developing long-term business cooperation between Norway and Bulgaria, based on business development and innovation.
Supported by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014–2021 under the “Business Development, Innovation and SMEs in Bulgaria” Programme.
