Interview with Bart
CEO of Flamengos Startup Invest
Flamengos Startup Invest Was Born from a Deep Ambition
Flamengos
Based on the history of Flemish colonists who settled in Flamengos on the island of Faial in the Azores. A bridge between Flemish roots and Portuguese future.
Startup
Lifting businesses and people in the circular economy to their fullest potential. Helping new ventures grow with sustainability as their foundation.
Invest
Financial growth with sustainability at its core. We believe in profitable businesses that are also good for the planet.
Rooted in Wood, Nature and Fire
As the son of a tree nursery owner whose father was also a tree nursery owner, and grandson of the daughter of a sawmill family, Bart has a deeply rooted passion for wood and nature. This family history forms the foundation of everything Flamengos Startup Invest does.
His personal company product-proof.com respects the four elements of nature, a philosophy that permeates every aspect of FSI.
The Four Elements of Sustainability
Product-proof.com respects the four elements. This philosophy is the common thread through all activities of Flamengos Startup Invest.
Fire
Flame-ProofFire retardation and fire resistance. Yakisugi — the Japanese technique of wood burning. Biochar through pyrolysis of invasive species.
Earth
Horti-ProofRespect for nature and the ecosystem. Returning biochar to agriculture, horticulture and forestry for healthier soil.
Water
Water-ProofProtection against moisture and water damage. Sustainable solutions that extend the lifespan of materials.
Air
Air-ProofAir quality and ventilation. Creating healthy living environments through natural materials and processes.
Why the Azores?
Wood
Cryptomeria wood for the Yakisugi Atelier activity. Pittosporum undulatum — an invasive species — for biochar production. Local raw materials, sustainably processed.
Fire
Yakisugi — the ancient Japanese technique of wood burning that protects and strengthens wood. Biochar — pyrolysis of invasive species, a process that creates value from problematic biomass.
Nature
Sustainability and respect for nature are central. Biochar is returned to nature to support agriculture, horticulture and forestry. Sustainability through circular processes.