#USA #Aries Clean Technologies #Biosolids Management #Franklin, Tennessee #Kari Mueller

Aries Clean Technologies Appoints Kari Mueller as CEO

On April 29, 2026, Aries Clean Technologies made a significant leadership change by appointing Kari Mueller as its Chief Executive Officer, a move that emphasizes the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Effective immediately, Mueller takes over from Jon Cozens, who shifts into an advisory role following a successful tenure characterized by remarkable growth and the successful validation of the company’s technologies.

A Proven Leader in Operations

Kari Mueller's previous role as Senior Vice President of Operations has equipped her with a deep understanding of the company's operations and strategic direction. Over her tenure, she played a crucial role in steering many of Aries' significant milestones, including project development and regulatory strategy. Her promotion to CEO is part of the seamless transition intended to maintain the momentum of the company’s core projects: the biosolids gasification facility in Sanford, Maine, and the redevelopment of the facility in Linden, New Jersey.

Cozens, the outgoing CEO, expressed confidence in Mueller's capabilities, noting, “Kari has been at the center of this company's work from the start. She understands the technology, the projects, and what it takes to deliver.” This endorsement underlines the continuity Aries aims to achieve while advancing its strategic initiatives.

Commitment to Major Projects

Mueller's leadership comes at a vital time as Aries continues to progress on its two principal projects. In Sanford, the company is actively working through the Maine Department of Environmental Protection's permitting process for a facility designed to manage biosolids efficiently. This facility aims to process 400 tons of biosolids daily, reducing waste volume significantly while also addressing the harmful PFAS substances — dubbed “forever chemicals” — by destroying them effectively.

Simultaneously, the redevelopment of the Linden facility focuses on operational readiness and ensuring regulatory alignment. Mueller's robust operational background will be crucial as she oversees these developments and engages with community partners and stakeholders.

Vision and Strategy Moving Forward

In her inaugural remarks as CEO, Mueller assured stakeholders that the company’s priorities will not change, stressing the importance of transparent communication and responsiveness. She acknowledged Jon Cozens’ foundational leadership and the strong groundwork that has been laid. “We have the right technology, the right team, and a clear path forward,” she asserted, demonstrating a keen awareness of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Nikhil Garg, General Partner and Co-founder of Spring Lane Capital, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for continuity in leadership to effectively support the initiatives in Sanford and Linden. “Kari’s leadership through this transition reflects exactly the kind of focus and continuity we look for in our portfolio companies,” he stated.

Kari Mueller’s Experience in Clean Technologies

Mueller's extensive background, spanning over 25 years in renewable energy and clean infrastructure, positions her well for this role. Her expertise encompasses various aspects of project management, including risk assessment and public engagement. Before joining Aries, she was the Director of Asset Management at Mura Technology, where she led advanced plastic recycling efforts.

Her academic credentials include a B.A. from Stanford University, setting a solid foundation for her future endeavors at Aries Clean Technologies.

About Aries Clean Technologies

Aries Clean Technologies is dedicated to creating safe, science-based solutions for biosolids management. By employing patented gasification technology, the company significantly reduces biosolids volume while recovering energy and producing beneficial carbon-rich biochar. Committed to addressing environmental challenges, Aries aims to be a leader in providing municipalities with sustainable waste management solutions. For more information, visit www.ariescleantech.com and www.ariessanford.com.