Celebrating 25 Years of RespirTek
On March 16, 2026, RespirTek proudly celebrates 25 years of scientific service.
Founded in 2001, RespirTek has spent more than two decades supporting manufacturers, researchers, distributors, and organizations with reliable, science-driven testing services. Our work has always been guided by a simple principle: deliver accurate data, clear communication, and dependable service that our clients can rely on.
Over the years, RespirTek has expanded its testing capabilities, invested in advanced laboratory infrastructure, and grown a dedicated team of technical professionals while maintaining the personalized service of a specialized laboratory.
Today, RespirTek supports clients worldwide with biodegradability, compostability, and environmental testing, helping organizations meet regulatory requirements, validate environmental claims, and advance sustainable innovation.
We are grateful to the clients, partners, and team members who have made the past 25 years possible — and we look forward to the future.
The Founding of RespirTek
RespirTek was incorporated in March 2001, realizing the vision of its founders B.J. Hook and Jerry Hodges.
B.J. Hook, Senior Biologist and CEO, brought extensive scientific expertise in microbiology and respirometry systems. Through her work with leading researchers in the field, she helped develop RespirTek’s technical approach to studying biodegradation, environmental microbiology, and biological treatment systems.
Co-founder, Jerry Hodges, brought more than three decades of experience in financial management, business operations, and systems development, including work with numerous multi-million-dollar startup organizations. Through this experience, he recognized a significant gap in the marketplace: the need for laboratories that prioritized both technical excellence and responsive client service.
Jerry envisioned a “consulting laboratory” model that focused not only on generating accurate scientific data but also on understanding client needs and providing clear, collaborative support throughout the testing process. This vision helped shape the foundation of RespirTek, with an emphasis on hiring highly capable technical staff and building long-term relationships with clients based on trust, reliability, and scientific integrity.
Together, they built RespirTek on a shared commitment to scientific integrity, reliable testing, and long-term client partnerships.
Scientific Expertise and Testing Services
Since its founding, RespirTek has developed specialized expertise in environmental and biological testing services, including:
- Biodegradability testing
- Compostability testing
- Wastewater treatability studies
- Toxicity and inhibition testing
- Environmental microbiology
- Respirometry-based biodegradation analysis
RespirTek performs testing using internationally recognized methodologies, including ASTM, ISO, OECD, and EPA standards, ensuring results that are accepted by regulators, certification bodies, and industry organizations worldwide.
The laboratory operates under a rigorous quality system and maintains ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation, demonstrating technical competence and adherence to internationally recognized laboratory standards.
Growth and Investment in Laboratory Infrastructure
As the demand for environmental testing expanded, RespirTek continued to invest in laboratory facilities, equipment, and technical personnel.
In the early 2020s, RespirTek completed construction of a state-of-the-art bioenvironmental laboratory facility in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, significantly expanding the company’s capacity for biodegradability, compostability, and respirometry-based studies.
These investments allow RespirTek to conduct complex biological testing programs while maintaining the flexibility and responsiveness of a specialized scientific laboratory.
Supporting Sustainable Innovation
Today, RespirTek works with clients across the United States and internationally, including:
- Consumer product manufacturers
- Chemical and materials companies
- Environmental engineering firms
- Wastewater utilities
- Research institutions
RespirTek’s testing services help organizations:
- Demonstrate product biodegradability
- Meet regulatory and environmental compliance requirements
- Support product stewardship initiatives
- Develop and validate sustainable materials and formulations
Through its work in biodegradation science and environmental microbiology, RespirTek continues to support innovation in sustainable products and environmental protection.
Looking Ahead
As RespirTek celebrates its 25th anniversary, the company remains committed to advancing environmental testing science while maintaining the responsive service and technical expertise that have defined the organization since its founding.
We thank our clients, partners, and team members who have made the past 25 years possible.
Thank you for trusting RespirTek.
RespirTek Milestones
2001 – RespirTek founded in Mississippi
2000s – Expansion of biodegradability and environmental testing services
2010s – Continued growth in respirometry-based biodegradation studies and environmental microbiology testing
2021–2022 – Construction of the new RespirTek laboratory facility in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
2026 – RespirTek celebrates 25 years of scientific testing and environmental research