Niels van den Hoek

Niels van den Hoek is the Director and Co-Founder of SweepSmart, a Dutch-Indian social enterprise focused on innovative waste management solutions tailored for developing countries, particularly India. He co-founded the company with Silvia de Vaan after recognizing the significant waste management challenges in India, especially in urban areas like Bangalore.

Background and Experience

• Education and Early Career: Niels has a background in waste management, having previously worked with Van Gansewinkel Group, a leading European waste management company. His expertise includes operational management and consultancy in waste systems.
• Role at SweepSmart: At SweepSmart, Niels is responsible for developing efficient waste processing systems that integrate local informal waste collectors into formal operations. His approach emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility, aiming to improve the livelihoods of waste pickers while enhancing recycling rates.124

Achievements

Under his leadership, SweepSmart has successfully established multiple waste sorting centers in Bangalore, significantly increasing their operational capacity and efficiency. The company employs a data-driven approach to monitor waste flows and productivity, ensuring effective management of resources.12

Vision

Niels envisions expanding SweepSmart’s impact by scaling operations to more centers across India and potentially other developing regions. His goal is to create sustainable waste management solutions that not only address environmental concerns but also provide decent jobs for local communities.34

For more detailed insights into his professional journey, you can find his profile on LinkedIn under the username nielsvandenhoek.5