Dunya Jovanovic: Could you introduce yourself to our audience and tell us what led you to work in the healthcare system?
Beau Wangtrakuldee: My name is Beau Wangtrakuldee, co-founder and CEO of AmorSui, a New York-based climate tech company focused on providing circular solutions for medical supplies and PPE. Our offerings include circular products, reprocessing logistics, and data on environmental impact. My journey began as a PhD scientist when a chemical spill incident revealed the inadequacies of existing PPE. This experience highlighted the need for better, more sustainable products in the medical supply sector, which led to the founding of AmorSui.
DJ: How important do you think innovation is in medical apparel, and what trends are you seeing that could shape the future of the industry?
BW: Innovation is crucial. The global medical supply market is dominated by disposable products, leading to massive waste and pollution. There's a growing recognition of the need to reduce carbon emissions and plastic waste, driven by global policies and public awareness. We're excited about this shift as it aligns with our mission to provide better, sustainable products.
DJ: How do you differentiate yourself in the market? Are there other products similar to yours?
BW: Most products in the market are disposable and low quality. We focus on creating high-quality, reusable, and 100% recyclable products. Our approach ensures better protection and sustainability, setting us apart from the competition, which primarily offers disposable items.
DJ: How do people react when they switch from disposable to reusable products?
BW: There are initial concerns about infection control, costs, and environmental impact. However, our case studies show that our products are significantly more protective, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Once users experience the benefits, their feedback is overwhelmingly positive, appreciating the functionality, comfort, and sustainability of our products.
DJ: Do you have any user feedback you'd like to share?
BW: Absolutely. Users often can't believe the level of quality and protection our PPE offers. We've received positive feedback on the functionality, comfort, and gender-inclusive design of our products, which are especially important for women in healthcare.
DJ: What challenges did you face when starting your company, especially as a woman in healthcare, and how did you overcome them?
BW: Initially, pitching sustainability in healthcare was challenging. There was a lack of awareness about the environmental impact of disposable products. However, with increasing public policy and investment in sustainability, the conversation has become easier. Educating people about our products and their benefits remains a challenge, but it's getting better.
DJ: What exciting projects or news do you have for AmorSui?
BW: We are expanding our product line to include reusable test tubes, biodegradable gloves, and other medical supplies. We're also developing a marketplace for healthcare systems to access better products with transparent data on their environmental impact.
DJ: What strategies are you using to reach new business opportunities and partnerships?
BW: We're engaging with healthcare working groups focused on sustainability and partnering with major medical supply brands. These collaborations help us pilot our products with large networks of hospitals and expand our reach.
DJ: Where do you see your company in the next five years?
BW: In the next five years, we aim to be a global leader in sustainable medical supplies, onboard 100 hospitals, and significantly reduce carbon emissions in the healthcare sector.
DJ: What advice would you give to other CEOs or climate professionals looking to start their own business in this space?
BW: Stay informed about global trends and policies. Understanding the evolving landscape is crucial. Position your business to meet these changes, and focus on educating your market about the importance and benefits of sustainability.
