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.
50+
Collection points
2,500+ kg
Wax collected
20–50%
Impact share
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 Goal
Building a network that works as naturally as glass recycling bins – but for wax. Locally rooted, socially impactful, sustainable long-term.
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.
People who carry the cycle
John Pierre Ackermann
Founder & Workshop Lead
“Every candle tells a story – we give it a second chapter.”
Janina Schäfer
Managing Director & Strategy
“Impact happens when everyone understands what it's about – and when the numbers add up.”
Philipp Ackermann
Digital, Technology & Processes
“Technology is not an end in itself – it must solve real problems.”
Maren Klein
Acquisition & Collection Points
“Every new collection point is another step towards a world without wax waste.”
Join the Wachswandel
Whether donating wax, becoming a location or buying our candles – there are many ways to support the cycle.