Our Startup Spotlight series introduces you to the creative minds in our community, sharing their unique stories and ideas. This week, we put the spotlight Floris Oortman, founder of Vanguard Clean BV, the company behind RST-5, a sustainable acetone alternative that replaces solvents by removing resin, paint, glue, and oil without flammable or toxic solvents, ideal for any boat or yachting manufacturer using resin in their production processes.

What’s your story? How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Our journey began when we realised that the composites and marine industries were still heavily reliant on harmful solvents like acetone, despite the growing focus on sustainability and workplace safety. RST-5 had already been quietly making waves for decades as a safer alternative, but it needed a new generation of energy to bring it to global scale. That’s where I came in. I saw the potential to modernise, reposition, and scale a proven product with real environmental impact.

Why does the industry need the solution you’re providing?

Production processes are overlooked when it comes to sustainability, yet it represents a massive source of emissions, workplace hazards, and chemical waste. RST-5 replaces flammable, VOC-heavy solvents with a bio-based, non-toxic alternative that’s just as effective, without compromising safety or compliance. It helps shipyards, boat builders, and composite manufacturers meet the rising standards for ESG and worker protection without slowing down production.

Read more: Electric marine startup Pollentia opens $5M fundraising round amid momentum in clean marine innovation

What have you enjoyed most about starting your own company?

Building a company that truly aligns with my values such as sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, has been incredibly fulfilling. I love seeing a product that we believe in being used by professionals who appreciate both its performance and its environmental benefit. Also, connecting with like-minded people through platforms like Yachting Ventures has been a highlight.

What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning?

One of the biggest challenges was educating customers. Most professionals are used to acetone and don’t see a reason to change until you show them how much safer and more compliant their operations can be. Another hurdle was scaling production in a way that kept the product affordable while maintaining quality and environmental integrity.

What’s next for your business? Where do you see it in 3-5 years?

We’re expanding our international distributor network and launching local production in key markets like India and the U.S. Our goal is to become the go-to sustainable cleaning solution for the global composites and marine sectors. In 3–5 years, we aim to replace thousands of tons of harmful solvents annually and play a key role in pushing industrial cleaning into the green economy.

Any advice for entrepreneurs just starting out in this space?

Focus on your long-term mission, not just the product. If your solution solves a real problem and aligns with future trends like sustainability and safety, keep pushing—even when the market isn’t ready. Persistence and clear communication make all the difference.

And a fun one—what’s a quote or some words that you live by?

Nike – Just do it!

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