𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐋𝐈 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥: 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭

A Foundation Built on Environmental Innovation

The evolution of, FLI Global from 1984 to date can be linked back to the lived experience of our founder Michael Flynn who was inspired and influenced by the US led environmental movement of the 1970s and the global changes and challenges that have caused our climate crisis of today. 1984 marks the beginning of that experience:

1980’s

The US EPA, the Environmental Protection Agency was stringent in their enforcement of environmental regulations. In 1976 and 1986, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency published Quality Criteria for Water (known as the “Red Book” and the “Gold Book”).

The criteria in these documents are still current where a more recent criteria has not been published. Similar European Environmental standards were established around the same time and this led to quality criteria for air, soil and water being established and written into law. The European Union (EU) Environmental Policy was initiated in 1973 with the “Environmental Action Programme” at which point the Environmental Unit was formed (named Directorate General for the Environment in 1981).

1984–1987: Early Foundations

Michael Flynn began his journey in 1984 with Schlegel Lining Technology BV, the world’s leading geomembrane manufacturer at the time (now Solmax Canada). Through on-site training in the U.S., he was introduced to the fast-growing environmental protection movement and gained hands-on experience in geomembrane applications. By 1987, he was managing large-scale installation projects globally.

1987–1989: Building Expertise

During this time, Michael became a self employed project manager, creating a specialised geosynthetics installation team that successfully executed full-service projects. These efforts laid the groundwork for what would soon become FLI International.

1989: FLI International is Born

FLI International was officially incorporated in Ireland in 1989. The new business focused on supplying and installing engineered geosynthetic solutions for a wide range of clients, including those in the mining sector. Branches were soon established across the UK, France, and Spain, marking the beginning of FLI’s international expansion.

2003–2008: Diversification and Strategic Growth

To expand its expertise and client base, FLI Group acquired specialist environmental contracting and process engineering businesses in the UK and France. These included Vertase FLI, a leader in land remediation, and FLI Water, a wastewater engineering pioneer. Additionally, FLI ABIC was acquired, enhancing the Group’s capabilities in the M&E wastewater sector. Around this time, FLI New Caledonia was launched to serve the mining industry in the Pacific region.

2009–2014: Innovation in Renewable Energy

FLI Energy was established and quickly became a UK leader in designing and building anaerobic digestion plants. These facilities convert organic waste into renewable electricity and gas, reinforcing FLI’s commitment to sustainable solutions.

2014–2017: Consolidation and New Markets

As the Group consolidated its European operations, FLI China was established to expand the company’s reach into Asia.

2018–Present: Offsite Infrastructure and Industrial Water Solutions

Recent acquisitions have further strengthened the Group:

• FLI Precast Solutions: A European leader in offsite precast concrete infrastructure, serving sectors such as water utilities, airports, data centers, ports, and renewable energy.
• FLI CAP Technology & FLI Adamelia: Experts in industrial wastewater treatment and demineralisation solutions, particularly within the gelatine industry.

Together, these additions enhance our capability to deliver integrated, sustainable solutions across the built environment.

A Sustainable Business Model

FLI Global positions itself as a sustainable solutions partner for diverse industries. Our core business includes the design and delivery of systems that treat contaminated soil and wastewater—ensuring clean water storage and safe, reusable land.

“The strength of the FLI Global business is greatly enhanced and supported by our great people who have a wide range of specialist skills, abilities, know how and experience.” —Michael Flynn, Group Executive Chairman & CEO

The Meaning Behind Our Brand

In 2014, our staff helped shape the FLI Global name and logo. Each element represents a core aspect of who we are:

• Grey steel: Stability, dependability, and reliability
• Globe with dynamic swirls: The speed of globalisation, our openness to knowledge sharing, and our mission to protect air, soil, and water
• Interwoven elements: Celebrating individuality, encouraging collaboration, and sparking innovation

These symbols represent our identity and commitment to solving complex environmental challenges through creativity, unity, and purpose.

Looking Ahead

At FLI Global, we are proud of our heritage and driven by a shared responsibility to protect the environment for future generations. We continue to grow through a strong focus on leadership development, next-generation management, and a culture of continuous innovation.

As we move forward, our divisions—including FLI Precast Solutions, VertaseFLI, FLI Water, FLI CAP Technology, and FLI Adamelia—will keep shaping a better, more sustainable world.

Together, we are building the future.