Steve Jones, the newly appointed Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of 374Water, has set his sights on accelerating the company’s transition from development to full-scale commercialization of its supercritical water oxidation (SCWO) technology. In a recent interview with Steve Darling from Proactive, Jones outlined his strategic vision for the company, emphasizing throughput improvements and targeting high-return market opportunities.
Jones brings a wealth of executive experience in environmental services, industrial gases, and clean technologies to his new role. His leadership background includes board and senior management roles across several global organizations, where he specialized in commercializing industrial innovations and building high-performing teams in capital-intensive sectors. Most notably, Jones served as President, CEO, and Director of Covanta Holding Corporation, a world leader in Energy-from-Waste solutions and environmental services. Prior to that, he held senior management positions at Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., where he helped pioneer the on-site business model—an approach now being deployed by 374Water as its Waste Destruction Services (WDS) model.
Jones’ background in technology commercialization, business development, and project execution uniquely positions him to guide 374Water through its commercial scale-up phase. His leadership is expected to strengthen the company’s focus on transforming waste management through sustainable, closed-loop solutions that convert waste into clean water, energy, and recoverable materials.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for 374Water, as the company recently announced the successful completion of a commercial-scale field demonstration at Clean Earth’s Detroit, MI facility as part of a previously announced Department of Defense project. This achievement underscores the potential of 374Water’s SCWO technology to address critical environmental challenges, such as the destruction of PFAS and other hazardous waste.
In terms of corporate strategy, Jones highlighted the importance of throughput improvements and targeting high-return market opportunities. He also discussed the recent proxy filing regarding a potential reverse stock split to retain Nasdaq listing requirements and broaden investor access. “We are focused on executing our strategy to deliver sustainable, closed-loop solutions that address the growing demand for safe, reliable, and cost-effective waste management,” Jones stated.
The water, sanitation, and drainage sector is closely watching 374Water’s progress, as the commercialization of its SCWO technology could revolutionize waste management practices. The potential to destroy hazardous waste, including PFAS, and convert it into clean water and energy aligns with global efforts to achieve circular economies and meet EPA compliance standards.
Jones’ appointment signals a strategic step forward for 374Water, as the company aims to capitalize on its innovative technology and expand its market presence. His experience in commercializing industrial innovations and building high-performing teams is expected to drive the company’s growth and solidify its position as a leader in sustainable waste management solutions. As Jones takes the helm, the sector anticipates significant developments in the commercialization of SCWO technology and its impact on environmental sustainability.