We believe that even leftovers can still carry warmth.
We collect candle leftovers, process them in the workshop and fund social projects. Calm, transparent and together with the people who donate wax.
Why Wachswandel exists
Every year, tonnes of candle leftovers end up in the bin. Yet wax still holds enough warmth to fill rooms and fund social projects.
We're building a quiet cycle: Red collection points secure the material, a workshop processes it, partners help with sales, and a share of proceeds goes into local impact.
This creates a system that conserves resources, connects people and is sustainable long-term – reliable, traceable and open to everyone who wants to join.
Our Vision
A nationwide circular system where no candle wax ends up in the trash – and where every recycled gram funds social projects.
Our Approach
We combine circular economy with social entrepreneurship. 20–50% of our revenues go to charitable projects. Transparent, local and measurable.
“We're not a startup with a ping-pong table. We're four people who melt wax and want to do something meaningful.”
Our Goal
Building a network that works as naturally as glass recycling bins – but for wax. Locally rooted, socially impactful, sustainable long-term.
Numbers that speak for themselves
Our Story
The idea is born
John Pierre and Philipp realise: tonnes of candle leftovers end up in the bin – yet they still hold enough warmth for something new.
Founding & first workshop
Wachswandel is officially founded. The first workshop for sorting, melting and pouring is set up in Weilerswist.
First collection points
The first red bins appear in churches and cafés. Partners in Cologne and Bonn join in.
50+ collection points reached
The network grows faster than expected. Over 50 locations regularly collect candle leftovers.
First social impact
The first proceeds flow into local projects. Numbers and partnerships are published transparently.
Scaling & new regions
Expansion to more cities, route optimisation and building a self-sustaining circular system.
The people behind it
No anonymous profiles, but real people with different strengths and a common goal.
John Pierre Ackermann
Founder & Workshop Lead
Janina Schäfer
Managing Director & Strategy
Philipp Ackermann
Digital, Technology & Processes
From drop-off to impact
Four steps – this is how Wachswandel works.
Collect
Households, church communities and businesses drop off candle leftovers in red bins. We pick them up on schedule and keep the material flow clean.
Sort & Clean
In the workshop, wax is sorted, melted and filtered. Handwork ensures every batch is consistent and safe.
Pour & Design
From the cleaned wax, new candles and products are created. We test moulds, colours and wicks so they burn long and steady.
Share impact
A portion of proceeds goes to social projects. We publish numbers, partnerships and progress transparently.
What you should know about us
The most important questions about Wachswandel, our team and our mission.
Your question wasn't listed? Check the FAQ or write to us directly.
Write to us
Join the Wachswandel
Whether donating wax, becoming a location or buying our candles – there are many ways to support the cycle.