Blue Planet South Africa
Operating at the forefront of the environmental sector for over two decades, our firm bridges technical bioremediation expertise with local South African ecological needs.
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We transform complex environmental challenges into sustainable, cost-effective assets for a cleaner tomorrow.
About us
BluePlanet South Africa (BPSA) is an environmental biotechnology company committed to solving Africa’s most urgent water and waste challenges through science-driven, sustainable innovation.
As the regional partner of BluePlanet LLC (USA), we develop and deliver tailored biological solutions that restore natural balance across agriculture, aquaculture, wastewater treatment and open water ecosystems.
The Bionomics approach lies at the centre of our strategy—uniting science, engineering and field practice into a cohesive model for environmental restoration.
The Bionomics platform combines advanced microbial formulations, nutrient science and nanobubble technology into a cohesive, field-tested strategy for transforming impaired systems.
Who We Are
Our story
Our work delivers measurable results—raising dissolved oxygen, reducing sludge and odours, managing nutrient loads and restoring aquatic health in municipal, industrial, and natural systems. From polluted rivers to underperforming treatment plants, we provide scalable, low-chemical interventions grounded in biological integrity.
As the exclusive distributor of Moleaer nanobubble systems in Southern Africa, BluePlanet bringing world-leading gas-to-liquid infusion technology to the region through innovative integration.
We don’t just treat symptoms—we restore function. By combining advanced biotechnology with real-world implementation, we help clients, communities and ecosystems thrive.
We have engineered a methodology that not only removes pollutants and inhibitory compounds but also awakens and supports the natural microbial consortia critical to resilient ecological function. - Bioaugmentation using targeted, non-GMO microbes for specific pollutant breakdown - Nanobubble technology for efficient oxygen delivery and enhanced biological activity - Ecological engineering aligning physical, chemical and biological system dynamics
Our vision
We are reshaping the future of water and waste management in Africa. Through innovation in microbiology, nanobubble technology, and ecological engineering, we’re tackling today’s most pressing environmental challenges with scalable, cost-effective, and proven solutions.
Our vision is to restore natural balance—one site at a time—by: Enabling regenerative practices in agriculture and aquaculture Improving water quality and compliance in industry and municipalities Rehabilitating rivers, lakes and soil systems impacted by pollution Reducing reliance on chemicals through nature-based interventions
We believe that sustainable change is possible—when science, community and commitment converge.
We aim to lead by:
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Scaling nature-based solutions for complex water and waste challenges
Reducing chemical dependence in agriculture and industry
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Restoring ecological function in damaged water and soil systems
Driving sustainable innovation through biotechnology and nanotechnology
Our Foundation
We uphold the highest scientific standards in bioremediation, ensuring every solution preserves South Africa's natural heritage.
Environmental Integrity
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Leveraging four decades of research to develop technical platforms that transform complex industrial challenges into sustainable assets.
Technical Innovation
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Future Stewardship
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Our commitment goes beyond consulting; we aim to foster a regenerative future for South Africa's & Sub-Saharan Africa's industries and communities.
Management Team
Ralf Dominick
Chairman
Heiner Dominick
Founder and Managing Director
Operations Director
Rowan McDonald
Chair
Heiner Dominick is the Founder and CEO of Blueplanet, bringing over 30 years of international business leadership, engineering and entrepreneurial experience to the water and environmental sectors. Having held senior executive and board-level positions across multiple industries, including serving as Global Aftermarket Director at CompAir in the United Kingdom, he combines a global business perspective with a passion for innovation and practical problem-solving. For nearly two decades, Heiner has focused on developing and implementing innovative water treatment and environmental remediation solutions. His expertise spans biological wastewater treatment, microbial bioremediation, aquatic ecosystem restoration and advanced water treatment technologies. An early adopter of nanobubble technology, Heiner began integrating its applications into environmental treatment solutions as far back as 2015, recognising its potential well ahead of wider industry adoption. A natural entrepreneur and forward-thinking problem solver, Heiner thrives on identifying opportunities where innovative technologies and practical engineering can deliver meaningful environmental change. His ability to challenge established practices, see the bigger picture and inspire those around him has helped drive Blueplanet's development of tailored solutions for complex industrial, municipal and environmental challenges. Drawing on the demanding conditions and unique environmental challenges of South Africa, Heiner has pioneered treatment methods and approaches that have since been applied internationally, including projects in Spain, India and New Zealand. He brings a collaborative and ambitious outlook to Blueplanet's mission and is passionate about building a team that turns bold ideas into practical solutions, advancing sustainable water treatment and environmental rehabilitation across Africa and beyond.
Marcel Esterhuysen is Blueplanet’s Operations Director, bringing over 20 years of experience across business management, logistics, risk management and technical project delivery. With a background spanning agriculture and commercial operations, he combines sound business judgement with a practical understanding of technical systems, project management and the demands of working in challenging environments. His diverse career has developed a broad skill set encompassing people and resource management, logistics and the coordination of complex projects. His experience also extends to technical design and oversight of electromechanical and civil works, giving him an understanding of both the commercial considerations and practical requirements of successful project delivery. Since joining Blueplanet in 2021, Marcel has become a central figure in turning the company's ambitious ideas and technical innovations into practical, achievable projects. Known for keeping his finger on the pulse of the business, he oversees commercial activities, project resources, compliance and day-to-day operations, ensuring that the team has the support, structure and direction needed to deliver on its commitments. Marcel brings a grounded, solutions-focused approach to leadership, balancing strategic business objectives with the realities of project implementation. His ability to connect people, technical requirements and business priorities plays an essential role in turning Blueplanet's vision into reliable project delivery and lasting value for its clients.
Head of Technology
Rowan McDonald is Blueplanet’s Head of Technology, specialising in nanobubble technology and its applications across the water and environmental sectors. With over 15 years of experience in specialised water treatment, his expertise spans chemical-free and chemical-reducing treatment processes, advanced oxidation, environmental bioremediation and the development of innovative solutions to complex water challenges. His multidisciplinary background includes technology development and integration across the communications, security, food processing and healthcare industries, bringing a broad perspective to the application of emerging technologies in environmental treatment. Known for his analytical mindset and insistence on good data, Rowan combines scientific rigour with a practical, hands-on engineering approach. He is passionate about bridging the gap between promising technologies and proven, field-ready solutions that deliver measurable environmental outcomes. Based in Cape Town, Rowan works on projects across Africa, applying innovative technologies and practical expertise to some of the continent’s most demanding water treatment and environmental rehabilitation challenges.
Earl Graham
Environmental Scientist
Michael Mildenhall
JP Conradie
Earl Graham is an Environmental Scientist at Blueplanet, specialising in aquatic ecosystems, freshwater ecology and environmental assessment. His expertise spans hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, sediment dynamics, remote sensing and geospatial analysis. He is also pursuing doctoral research through the University of the Western Cape, investigating sediment dynamics and the transport of associated pollutants through catchment systems. His background combines municipal scientific services, academic research and environmental technology. During his time with the City of Cape Town, Earl contributed to river health monitoring, estuarine conservation planning and water quality investigations. His contributions to national environmental assessments and published scientific research reflect his commitment to understanding and protecting South Africa's aquatic ecosystems. At Blueplanet, Earl applies his scientific expertise across a diverse range of water treatment and environmental rehabilitation projects. His work encompasses industrial wastewater processes, novel nutrient sequestration systems and comprehensive ecosystem assessments, including investigations across the extensive Hartbeespoort Dam system. Combining field surveys, sediment characterisation, water quality monitoring and spatial analysis, he helps develop a clearer understanding of environmental conditions and informs targeted treatment strategies. Driven by scientific curiosity and a passion for aquatic ecosystem restoration, Earl combines academic rigour with practical field experience. He thrives on translating complex environmental data into meaningful insights, helping bridge the gap between scientific understanding and effective interventions that deliver measurable improvements in environmental health.
Senior Project Manager
& Quantity Surveyor
Michael Mildenhall is Blueplanet's Senior Project Manager and Quantity Surveyor, bringing over 18 years of experience in construction, commercial management and multidisciplinary project delivery. His career spans major industrial, commercial and infrastructure developments, including work in demanding, high-standard environments where technical complexity, contractual accountability and reliable execution are essential. With a BTech in Quantity Surveying and a National Diploma in Building from Durban University of Technology, Michael combines formal technical training with extensive industry experience. His background includes projects exceeding R500 million in combined value, encompassing complex construction works and the coordination of multiple engineering disciplines. At Blueplanet, Michael oversees project costing, estimating, budgeting, contract administration and construction management. His experience spans civil, mechanical, electrical and environmental projects, enabling him to manage diverse technical requirements while maintaining control of costs, timelines and project risks. He also plays a key role in managing client relationships, ensuring clear communication, sound commercial decisions and well-managed expectations throughout the project lifecycle. Known for his reliability, attention to detail and measured approach, Michael brings structure and predictability to complex projects. He believes in balancing the interests of clients and project stakeholders through transparent communication, sound commercial judgement and a commitment to delivering on expectations. His approach helps ensure that Blueplanet's ambitious environmental solutions are supported by disciplined project management and dependable execution.
Project Manager
Jean-Paul de Beurges
JP Conradie is a Project Manager at Blueplanet, bringing over seven years of experience in wastewater treatment, aquatic systems and technical project delivery. His background in site management, water quality monitoring and client-facing operations has given him a practical understanding of water treatment processes and the challenges of maintaining reliable performance under real-world conditions. With experience spanning wastewater treatment and aquaculture, JP brings a valuable understanding of the relationship between water quality, biology and aquatic ecosystems. His training in Aquaculture Production Management at Stellenbosch University complements his practical knowledge of biological treatment processes, where microbial activity, oxygen availability and the management of biomass are fundamental to effective treatment and healthy aquatic environments. Since joining Blueplanet in 2023, JP has developed a diverse role encompassing water treatment system design, 3D plant modelling, project planning and implementation. He is also actively involved in environmental surveying, bathymetry, water sampling, data analysis and reporting, alongside overseeing the preparation and cultivation of microbial cultures used in Blueplanet's biological treatment applications. Bringing together design, field data and biological process knowledge, JP helps ensure that Blueplanet's treatment solutions are not only technically sound, but practical to build, operate and maintain. Analytical, adaptable and resourceful, JP brings a hands-on approach and a strong sense of ownership to every project. Equally comfortable working through technical details or coordinating people and resources in the field, he plays an important role in translating innovative treatment concepts into practical, buildable solutions that deliver measurable environmental outcomes.
Strategic Advisor & Growth Partner
Jean-Paul de Beurges is a strategic advisor, business development leader and project management professional with more than 20 years of experience in strategic planning, operational leadership, business transformation and the delivery of complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives across international markets. As Strategic Advisor & Growth Partner to Blue Planet South Africa, Jean-Paul supports the organisation’s strategic development, commercial growth and market engagement, helping connect innovative environmental technologies and remediation capabilities with the organisations and decision-makers that need them most. His work focuses on building strategic partnerships, identifying opportunities for collaboration, developing market presence and translating organisational ambitions into practical, commercially sustainable outcomes. He brings experience in stakeholder engagement, programme leadership, organisational development and business strategy, with a strong emphasis on understanding client challenges and developing solutions aligned with their operational and environmental objectives. At Blue Planet South Africa, Jean-Paul is focused on expanding engagement across the mining, industrial, infrastructure and public sectors, particularly where water quality, acid mine drainage, wastewater treatment, contaminated land and environmental rehabilitation present significant challenges. He champions a collaborative, evidence-led approach that brings together scientific expertise, biotechnology, strategic partnerships and practical implementation. His objective is to help organisations explore effective, site-specific remediation approaches that support environmental improvement while recognising operational realities and long-term sustainability requirements. Jean-Paul believes that meaningful environmental progress requires more than innovative technology alone. It requires the right partnerships, a clear understanding of the challenge, and a commitment to turning technical capability into practical results. Through his role at Blue Planet South Africa, he is working to build the relationships and opportunities that help advance responsible environmental management and sustainable remediation across South Africa and the wider African market.
OUR PARTNERS & ACCREDITATIONS
