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A community is strong because of the myriad of interconnections, dependencies, and responsibilities that tie it together. When wastewater is dumped in deep pits in the ground or sewers that run out to sea, we bypass all opportunity for the community and we're weaker for it.
Nestled in a small lab on the North Shore, we're a scrappy research and development company armed with nature's best kept secrets for fighting waste and environmental destruction - algae and bacteria - dedicated to transforming Hawaii's wastewater woes into a clean, sustainable future.
At WaiHome, our mission is to return the strength of community to wastewater treatment. An act that of course could never be accomplished alone.
We are dedicated to improving access to high-quality, affordable, and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions across the islands, ensuring a healthier environment and a brighter future for homeowners in Hawaii and beyond.
Sustainability Reimagained
WaiHome redefines sustainability by integrating cutting-edge, eco-friendly wastewater treatment technologies that minimize environmental impact and promote resource conservation.
Learn MorePlug and Play Products
We understand that your home and its needs are ever-changing. Our system is built to grow with you, ensuring that you can easily add components or upgrade your system as your needs evolve.
Learn MoreMade For Hawaii
Designed specifically for the challenges of high groundwater levels, small property sizes, and volcanic bedrock, ensuring flexibility across a wide range of property types.
Or “How WaiHome Came To Be”
Over a spirited game of pool in the university bar, what began as a casual chat about how to use our engineering degrees, took an unexpected turn towards the revitalization of communities through innovative onsite wastewater treatment and reuse.
It all started with a serendipitous chat between Greg and a Kauai Council member about the looming cesspool ban, sparking curiosity and concern. This conversation was soon followed by another, delving into James' innovatative research on utilizing algae for onsite wastewater treatment. These exchanges led to the pivotal moment where both wondered, "Are we really about to do this?"
In a significant leap forward, WaiHome celebrates the opening of its inaugural office and the expansion of its passionate team to three members. This pivotal moment comes as the company secures funding, marking a transition from its proof-of-concept phase to the development of commercial products.
As James delved into his master's in environmental engineering, exploring the potential of algae for small-scale wastewater treatment, Greg was overseeing operations at a canoe manufacturing company in Hawaii.
This vision caught the attention of the National Science Foundation, which awarded WaiHome a grant, enabling the duo to kickstart pilot testing. This significant milestone not only validated their innovative approach to wastewater management but also set WaiHome on a path to revolutionize environmental sustainability.
WaiHome is on the brink of launching its pioneering demonstration systems, and we're calling on homeowners eager to be at the forefront of this exciting initiative!
At WaiHome, our commitment goes beyond mere words; we're deeply passionate about converting waste into wonder. Driven by our profound love for Hawaii, we're dedicated to addressing the most daunting and odorous challenges with determination. Join us in our mission to secure a more sustainable, pristine future for our beloved islands.
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Our WaiHome Community
James Roberts
CEO, Principal Investigator
Staff Engineer, Limtiaco ConsultingMASc
Environmental Engineering, University of British Columbia
BASc Integrated Engineering, UBC
Greg Wong
COO, New Product Introduction Engineer
Senior Manufacturing Engineer, ARRIS Composites
Solar Project Manager, Greenpath Technologies
BASc Integrated Engineering, University of British Columbia
Robert Lehn
Environmental Research Technician
Farm Manager, Moloa'a Organica'a
Apprentice, MIU Regenerative Organic Agriculture Program
BA Education for Sustainability, Maharishi International University
Jimmie Harris
Commercialization Consultant
Product Manager, Oceanit Research
MSE Design Impact, Stanford University
BS Mechanical Engineering, MIT
Interested In Joining the Team?
We’re always on the lookout for top-notch talent passionate about brining a cleaner, greener future to Hawaii. Check out our available roles below or send us a message with your superpowers.
Open JobsEvery great team has stellar coaches. We’re no exception.
A CPO in the SF bay area that has established a history of commercializing, launching, and building products for over 2 dozen startups and Fortune 500 companies such as Adobe, PayPal and Checkr. As an advisor for other startups, Ms. Varmazis has used her connections to facilitate countless rounds of VC investments.
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An experienced Director of New Product Introduction that has helped companies like Apple, Microsoft, Tonal, and Freewire go from proof of concept design to mass production facilities. His vast experience in Quality Engineering, Supply Chain Management, Failure/Root Cause Analysis, Continuous Improvement, and Manufacturing Engineering will help to ensure WaiHome is able to deliver homeowners a high quality product at an affordable price.
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A professor specializing in water treatment at the University of British Columbia that has over 25 years of research and consulting experience. While at GE in product development and research, he has led the development of novel technologies that are now standards in the industry. His research on passive decentralized water treatment systems in remote areas makes him a perfect advisor in designing for the challenges of cesspool replacement in Hawaii.
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A local windward Oahu community leader that has studied the reuse of algae and phosphorus rich water on Hawaiian soils. He currently develops workshops and presents/educates the local communities about the risks of water pollution in Hawaii watersheds, and the need for water reuse on the island. Mr. Reppun will be vital in WaiHome’s approach to outreach and marketing WaiHome’s line of wastewater treatment technologies.
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