This climate startup is taking recycling to the next level, with shower water beer

A San Francisco-based startup is reshaping perceptions of recycling by introducing a unique product: beer made from repurposed shower and laundry water. Epic Cleantec, which was founded in 2015, has focused on wastewater recycling, employing its innovative technology to purify and reuse water in various buildings. CEO Aaron Tartakovsky emphasizes the need for a shift in societal attitudes towards recycled water. "We need to overhaul our flush and forget society," he stated. By packaging this clean water into appealing beer cans, the company aims to make the concept more palatable to the public. "A lot of it was psychology," Tartakovsky added, highlighting the transformation of recycled water into a product that consumers enjoy. The brewing process begins with collecting water from showers and laundry, which then undergoes rigorous purification steps. These include filtration, biological treatment, and advanced processes such as reverse osmosis. Once cleansed, the water is sent to Devil's Canyon Brewing Company, where it is crafted into beer. Currently, Epic's offerings, including Shower Hour IPA and Laundry Club Kölsch, are available for online purchase across several states, as well as in select retail locations in California. By utilizing recycled water, Epic Cleantec significantly conserves the planet's fresh water resources, with the brewing process using approximately ten gallons of water to produce just one gallon of beer. The company also prioritizes sustainability in its ingredients, opting for drought-resistant and energy-efficient hops, grain, and yeast. Tartakovsky underscores the broader implications of their work, stating, "Buildings consume about 15% of the world's fresh water. We must communicate this narrative differently to engage the public effectively." Jordan Langer, an early investor and CEO of Non Plus Ultra, noted the surprising success of the product, which has garnered significant attention for Epic Cleantec. With a total funding of $25 million from various investors, the startup continues to explore new avenues, including the possibility of launching a non-alcoholic beer in the future.