Munich Startup: What does Livair do? What problem does it solve?
Martin Waltl, Livair: We help make buildings more sustainable, energy-efficient, and healthier, while protecting the climate and people. We specialize in measuring, analyzing, and solving problems related to indoor air quality and energy consumption in buildings. Why? Buildings are responsible for 40 percent of global CO2 emissions, primarily through the operation of "unsmart" heating and ventilation systems that use fossil fuels, which can lead to, among other things, higher energy costs. Our goal of transforming buildings into sustainable, low-CO2 living spaces also has a direct impact on health. We spend over 90 percent of our time indoors, and indoor air is up to five times more polluted than the air we breathe outside. This can lead to health problems such as respiratory diseases, allergies, and even Alzheimer's. The increasing importance of pollutants such as radon is further exacerbating the situation.
Our hardware-enabled SaaS solution offers real-time monitoring of indoor air quality using a specially developed and patented radon sensor and the recording of a total of 13 parameters. This provides a kind of permanent, complete blood count of indoor conditions – as a basis for the upcoming treatment we recommend for the building. Here, we're talking about direct recommendations, as well as the possibility of initiating direct control of the HVAC systems using our data.
Munich Startup: But that's been around for a long time!
Martin Waltl, Livair: The decisive difference with Livair lies in its holistic approach. If inadequate sensor technology is used, we only get a partial picture. If the most harmful indoor air component, radon, is not detected, our health protection is inadequate.
We offer powerful hardware and real-time monitoring with powerful software that allows you to control heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems. This multitude of different data must be visually presented in such a way that the customer can grasp the resulting options for action at a glance – our dashboard. Another essential component of our all-in-one solution is our specially developed and patented radon sensor. The Alpha sensor is the result of many years of development, which not only incorporates the latest technology but also knowledge of the shortcomings of existing radon sensor technology. Thus, our Livair One, including the Alpha sensor, is entering a market that has found fertile ground thanks to corresponding legislation (a nationwide reference value for radon in workplaces). Overall, we offer our customers not only an innovative and reliable radon sensor, but also a comprehensive solution that helps them optimize indoor air quality, prevent legal requirements, and promote the well-being of their employees.
From radon sensor to software
Munich Startup: What is your founding story?
Martin Waltl, Livair: It all began about ten years ago when, during the construction of my house, I discovered that my property was contaminated with radon. I became aware of this dangerous, radioactive noble gas because, around that time, the EU recognized the high health risks posed by radon with a Euratom Directive and prescribed radon protection laws for member states. My co-founder, brother, and I were among the first radon specialists trained by the State Office for Environmental Protection in Augsburg. That was the launch pad for our first company, Radontec. This is where, after years of hard work, the patented Alpha Sensor was developed. This innovative sensor received special attention through a European Innovation Council grant, and we were one of only eight selected startups to receive millions in funding.
But we soon realized that there are many other harmful substances that affect almost everyone. We also discovered that numerous companies were suffering from high, yet sometimes unnecessary, energy consumption. In response, we founded our own spin-off, Livair. In addition to the radon sensor, this includes advanced sensor technology and our software component to measure all harmful substances in the air in real time, analyze them using AI, and solve problems of indoor air quality and energy consumption through automatic recommendations and the control of building systems. Our vision: to make buildings more climate-friendly. Reduce energy costs. Protect people in buildings from polluted indoor air. Prevent radon-induced lung cancer.
Munich Startup: What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Martin Waltl, Livair: One of the biggest challenges we overcame during our journey was undoubtedly the development of the unique radon sensor. This project required a lot of time and dedication, but it was absolutely worth it. The radon sensor is a completely new innovation, and it challenged us both technically and emotionally. We also encountered a lack of awareness regarding radon and indoor air quality, as few people are aware of the associated risks and impacts. It was an exciting task to raise awareness of radon and its importance for indoor air quality and to convey its relevance.
However, these challenges made the entire adventure even more exciting. We were passionate about overcoming obstacles and developing innovative solutions for healthy and energy-efficient buildings. The combination of technical breakthroughs and the mission to raise awareness made our journey a thrilling experience.
Livair: Central contact point for sustainable and healthy buildings
Munich Startup: Where would you like to be in one year, where in five years?
Martin Waltl, Livair: In one year, we aim to have a strong market position in the DACH region. Our success is based on our expertise in every type of building and our ability to offer a comprehensive solution that covers all aspects. Our goal for the next five years is to further expand our presence in Europe and potentially even expand to other parts of the world. We aim to become the one-stop shop for companies striving for sustainable and healthy buildings. With our proven technology and comprehensive approach, we are confident that we can contribute to making buildings worldwide healthier, more energy-efficient, and more sustainable.
Munich Startup: How have you experienced Munich as a startup location so far?
Martin Waltl, Livair: The exchange with other startups has proven extremely valuable and is encouraged by the MTZ, where we are based. Through such platforms, we have had the opportunity to gather many important learnings and exchange ideas with other innovative companies. One example of this was our participation in trade fairs such as Bits & Pretzels Healthtech, where we were able to officially measure the air quality. Such events offer us the opportunity to present our solutions to a broad audience and establish valuable contacts. The city of Munich, where we are based, also gives us access to talented specialists through the city's renowned universities. Furthermore, Munich offers a vibrant network of founders and investors that provides us with valuable resources and support. These networks enable us to turn our vision into reality and further advance our solutions for healthy and energy-efficient buildings.
Munich Startup: Quick exit or long breath?
Martin Waltl, Livair: Our long-term goal – with external investors on board – is an exit, or rather, to be exit-ready, within the next three to five years. However, it is still too early to think about this in concrete terms, as we are currently focused on achieving our ambitious short-term goals. The market still offers us many opportunities, and we see great potential for rapid scaling, driven by strong demand. We are determined to push forward with our vision and have much more to do. Our previous experience has shown that we have staying power and have successfully overcome the challenges with our previous start-up. We are ready to use this experience and our commitment to further advance our mission and unlock the full potential of our solutions in the market.
