San Francisco, CA: January 14, 2026 — UBQ Materials, a global manufacturing company that has developed a pioneering solution to the world’s growing waste challenge, has been named on Cleantech Group’s 2026 Global Cleantech 100. This annual list recognizes companies poised to deliver market-ready solutions that advance a cleaner, more resilient global future.
The patented UBQ™ fusion process transforms mixed household waste into UBQ Evolved Plastics™, a portfolio of bio-based thermoplastic composites that can replace plastics in a wide range of consumer, commercial, and industrial applications. With the award in its 17th year, UBQ Materials is proud to be named among the leading innovators addressing some of the world’s most urgent environmental and infrastructure challenges.
Following a 2025 marked by geopolitical volatility and shifting economic signals, UBQ Materials provides cost-competitive, sustainable solutions that contribute to a circular economy. Used in products sold by brands around the world including Mercedes-Benz, PepsiCo, and McDonald’s, the company is transforming supply chains and reducing reliance on virgin plastics.
“We’ve brought the future of material innovation and waste management to life. UBQ Materials is proud to be named in this year’s Global Cleantech 100 awards, recognizing our accomplishment. Not only are we driving forward a solution that improves pricing and sourcing stability for businesses, but we’ve also created a unique answer to the dual climate and waste crises. The future of waste isn’t disposal. It’s renewal,” said Albert Douer, UBQ Materials chairman and CEO.
“This year’s Global Cleantech 100 reflects a market in transition—one that is becoming more disciplined, more discerning, and ultimately more resilient. While the adjustment phase has been painful for some parts of the ecosystem, we are also witnessing remarkable bursts of innovation responding to new sources of demand, from AI-driven power needs to critical materials security,” remarked Richard Youngman, CEO at Cleantech Group.
About UBQ Materials
UBQ Materials is a global manufacturing company that has developed a pioneering solution to the world’s growing waste challenge. Our patented UBQ™ technology transforms mixed household waste into a bio-based thermoplastic composite, UBQ™. This advanced solution reduces GHGs, lessens reliance on conventional plastics, and minimizes natural resource extraction. UBQ Materials is committed to providing cost-competitive, sustainable solutions that contribute to a circular economy. Learn more at www.ubqmaterials.com.
About Cleantech Group
Cleantech® Group is the human intelligence authority on global cleantech innovation. By blending our intelligence, proprietary data, and the global network we’ve cultivated for more than 20 years, we deliver insights you can trust and guidance you can act on.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Emma Kemp
Browning Environmental Communications for UBQ Materials
Email: emma@browningenvironmental.com
Phone: +1 (202) 993-8372
Addison Marr
Senior Marketing Manager, Cleantech Group
Email: addison.marr@cleantech.com
Phone: +1 901-609-9540
