Attached files

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EX-23.1 - CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex23z1.htm
EX-31.1 - CERTIFICATION - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex31z1.htm
EX-21.1 - LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex21z1.htm
EX-10.23 - AMENDED AND RESTATED 2006 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex10z23.htm
EXCEL - IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCFinancial_Report.xls
EX-32.1 - CERTIFICATION - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex32z1.htm
EX-31.2 - CERTIFICATION - ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES INCesph_ex31z2.htm


 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

 

þ

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2014


OR

 

o

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from: _____________ to _____________

 

Commission file number: 000-25663

 

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

20-3502861

(State or Other Jurisdiction

(I.R.S. Employer

of Incorporation or Organization)

Identification No.)


3515 S.E. Lionel Terrace, Stuart, Florida

34997

(Address of Principal Executive Office)

(Zip Code)

  

  

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (772) 287-4846

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: None

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.01 par value

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o   No þ


Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o   No þ


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ   No o


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ   No o


Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  þ


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer

o

Accelerated filer

o

Non-accelerated filer

o

Smaller reporting company

þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).   o Yes þ No


The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the closing price as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter, June 30, 2014, was approximately $29,200,000.


The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s common stock, as of April 8, 2015, was 165,168,894.

 

 




 


INDEX


 

 

 

Page

 

Part I.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.

Business.

 

 

1

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors.

 

 

9

 

Item 1B.

Unresolved Staff Comments.

 

 

9

 

Item 2.

Properties.

 

 

9

 

Item 3.

Legal Proceedings.

 

 

9

 

Item 4.

Mine Safety Disclosures.

 

 

9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part II.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.

 

 

10

 

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data.

 

 

10

 

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

 

11

 

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.

 

 

27

 

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.

 

 

27

 

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.

 

 

27

 

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures.

 

 

28

 

Item 9B.

Other Information.

 

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part III.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.

 

 

29

 

Item 11.

Executive Compensation.

 

 

33

 

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

 

 

37

 

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.

 

 

38

 

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services.

 

 

39

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Part IV.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 15.

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.

 

 

40

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

 

42

 

 









 


PART I

 

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS.


Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. (“Ecosphere,” “ETI” or the “Company”) is a technology development and intellectual property licensing company that develops environmental solutions for global water, energy and industrial markets.  We help industry increase production, reduce costs and protect the environment through a portfolio of more than 35 patented and patent-pending technologies:  technologies like Ozonix®, the Ecos PowerCube® and our recently announced Ecos GrowCube™, which are available for exclusive and nonexclusive licensing opportunities across a wide range of industries and applications throughout the world.


Business Strategy


The Company’s management team executes on a business strategy that is driven by open innovation and innovative manufacturing. “Open Innovation” is a concept that was developed by Dr. Henry Chesbrough, the Executive Director of the Center for Open Innovation at the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. The Open Innovation concept provides a formula whereby small companies can rapidly develop and deploy new technologies and then license those technologies to larger organizations for rapid market penetration. In response to this concept, we developed the “Open Innovation Network,” our product development lifecycle that can be characterized by the following six stages:


1.

Identify a major environmental challenge,

2.

Invent new technologies and file patents,

3.

Partner with industry leaders,

4.

Commercialize and prove the technology with ongoing services paid for by customers and industry leaders,

5.

License the patented, commercialized technologies to well capitalized partners that are geographically located, and

6.

Create recurring revenues and increase shareholder value.


As a result, the Company has designed, developed, manufactured and commercialized a wide variety of patented technologies that are currently solving some of the world’s most critical water and environmental challenges. Our multi-patented Ozonix® technology is a revolutionary, high volume, Advanced Oxidation Process (“AOP”) designed to treat and recycle industrial wastewater without the use of toxic chemicals, while our patented Ecos PowerCube® is a mobile, solar-powered generator designed to maximize the amount of solar power that can be placed in a standard ISO shipping container footprint. In addition to the Company’s patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies, the Company has recently announced the launch of the Ecos GrowCube™ technology and product line, which is the world’s most state-of-the-art, fully-automated hydroponic growing system for cultivating high-value crops.


These patented technologies and corresponding trademarks can be purchased and licensed for use in large-scale and sustainable applications across industries, nations and ecosystems. Companies that license our patented technologies are able to improve their financial metrics while also reducing their ecological and environmental footprints. Although our other technologies and patents remain a viable part of our long-term technology licensing strategy, the Company is currently focused on licensing its multi-patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies as well as leasing and selling its Ecos GrowCube™ systems.

 

Technologies


OZONIX®


Many water recycling processes use chemicals - chemicals that are costly and harmful to the environment. Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® water treatment technology offers customers a chemical-free alternative to high-volume water disinfection and recycling for a diverse range of industries and applications ranging from the oil and natural gas industry and mining to agriculture and municipal wastewater treatment.


Description


The patented Ecosphere Ozonix® technology combines multiple forms of AOP’s into one broad-spectrum water treatment technology to oxidize and destroy organic matter, bacteria, biofilms, heavy metals, hydrocarbons and sulfides that are typically found in industrial wastewaters. Ozonix® eliminates the need for conventional liquid chemical biocides and scale-inhibitors that are typically required to control bacteria growth and scale deposition in a wide variety of wastewater treatment and disinfection applications. The patented Ozonix® process can also be used to produce an environmentally safe oxidant that can be used as a leaching agent or for further disinfection.



1



 


The patented Ozonix® process, in summary, saturates contaminated water with ozone (O3) and uses hydrodynamic cavitation, acoustical cavitation and electrochemical oxidation to oxidize and destroy micro-organisms. As water cycles through an Ozonix® reactor, bacteria cell walls are destroyed and contaminates are oxidized, returning clean water that is ready for use, re-use and/or final treatment for discharge applications.


Although Ecosphere has recently begun to license Ozonix® outside of the energy sector as described later in this Report, it initially was used primarily in the U.S. oil and gas business where its effectiveness and competitive advantages have been proven. See the discussion at page 11 of this Report. The energy section is licensed to Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC (FNES), a company organized by Ecosphere, of which Ecosphere currently owns a 30.6% interest.


Awards and Accolades


Ecospheres numerous awards and accolades evidence the importance and quality of its multi-patented Ozonix® technology. For example:


·

Ecosphere and Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC (“FNES”) were named Water Management Company of the Year in the Midcontinent Oil & Gas Awards in 2013. The Midcontinent Oil and Gas Awards is a platform for the oil and gas industry to demonstrate and celebrate the advances made in the key areas of environmental stewardship, efficiency, innovation, corporate social responsibility and health & safety. 


·

Ecosphere was named the winner in the Clean Tech/Green Tech category for the 2013 TechAmerica Foundation American Technology Awards. This award crosses the technology industry, recognizing products and services like Ecospheres patented Ozonix® technology for the treatment and recycling of water.


·

Ecosphere was chosen by Bloomberg New Energy Finance as a 2013 New Energy Pioneer. The awards program, now in its fourth year, selects 10 New Energy Pioneers each year. An independent panel of industry experts selected the winners from more than 200 candidates from around the world, assessing them against three criteria: innovation, demonstrated momentum and potential global scale.


·

Ecosphere was selected by IHS CERAWeek (an annual energy executive gathering hosted by IHS) as a 2013 Energy Innovation Pioneer. The Energy Innovation Pioneers program, held annually in conjunction with IHS CERAWeek, aims to identify the most innovative and distinctive new technologies in the energy spectrum. Criteria include creativity, feasibility of plan, scalability of technology and leadership team.


·

Ecosphere was selected as a finalist for the 2013 World Technology Awards in the Corporate Environment category. The World Technology Awards have been presented since 2000 as a way to honor those in 20 different categories doing the innovative work of the greatest likely long-term significance.” Nominees for the 2013 World Technology Awards were selected by the WTN Fellows (winners and finalists from previous annual award cycles in the individual categories) through an intensive, global process lasting many months.


·

Ecosphere was awarded the 2012 Frost & Sullivan North American Product Leadership Award in the Disinfection Equipment for Shale Oil and Gas Wastewater Treatment category. The 2012 Product Leadership Award recognizes Ecospheres leadership in the field of advanced water treatment, specifically in providing energy exploration and production companies with a non-chemical solution that allows them to recycle flowback and produced water with an ozone-based advanced oxidation process.


·

Ecosphere was chosen by the Artemis Project for the Artemis Top 50 Water Tech listing for three consecutive years beginning in 2010. The Artemis Water Tech Review brings together an elite group of water users that are seeking new solutions. An international network of hundreds of industry experts recommends promising companies, and Artemis guides the jury through a rigorous evaluation process. From a diverse pool of hundreds of applicants, the jury scores build a listing of 50 leaders in water tech.


Market Opportunities


The global water market — comprised of numerous activities — is estimated at $425 billion. Its growth is being driven by macro political, financial, social and ecological considerations.


At a high level, demand for water can be broken down into three major water use sectors:


·

Food & Agricultural (70 percent of freshwater use);



2



 


·

Energy & Industry (20 percent) the percentage of a countrys industrial sector water demand is generally proportional to its average income level; and,


·

Human settlements (10 percent) between 2009 and 2050, the world population is expected to increase by 2.3 billion, and urban areas are expected to absorb essentially all of the population growth.


The Ozonix® technology has the potential to be applied across numerous market sectors and industries. The potential applications are numerous and some exemplary target markets and sub-markets include, but are not limited to:


·

Agriculture (Grain Growing and Processing, Livestock Farms and Feedlots, Aquaculture, Fish Farming, Irrigation)


·

Energy (Onshore and Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration and Production, Power Generation, Refineries, Coal)


·

Food and Beverage (Drinking Water, Breweries, Dairy, Livestock Processing, Fruits and Vegetables, Sugar)


·

Industrial (Automotive, Biotechnology, Manufacturing, Metals, Microelectronics, Pharmaceutical, Textiles)


·

Marine (Ballast Water, Marine Process Water, Onboard Grey Water)


·

Mining (Acid Mine Drainage, Metals, Minerals, Process Water Treatment, Tailing, Leachate, Lixiviation and Recovery)


·

Municipal (Municipal Drinking Water, Sewage, Storm and Drainage Water Treatment)


Intellectual Property Protection


Ecosphere is a leader in the development of emerging AOP technologies and has a portfolio of intellectual property that includes eleven (11) approved United States patents, as well as numerous foreign patents, trademarks and pending patent applications associated with the Ozonix® process. In addition to the patent protection, as with most process technologies, trade secrets and know-how are also important assets providing Ecosphere with a competitive advantage.


Ozonix® is protected by U.S. Patent Nos. 7,699,994; 7,699,988; 7,785,470; 7,943,087; 8,318,027; 8,721,898; 8,858,064; 8,936,392; 8,906,242; 8,968,577; 8,999,154; with Numerous Patents Pending.


ECOS POWERCUBE®


Description


Most recently featured by FAST COMPANY and named One of the Top 100 Innovations of 2014 by POPULAR SCIENCE; the patented Ecos PowerCube® is a mobile, solar powered generator. Designed to meet the growing demand for off-grid energy, with a unique, patented array of stacked solar panels, the Ecos PowerCube® maximizes the total amount of solar power generation possible in 10’-53' ISO shipping container footprints - providing users with approximately 400% more solar power in a given footprint and the ability to power a wide variety of technologies ranging from satellite communications and solar-powered Internet to atmospheric water generation and mobile water treatment.


With solar power generation capabilities up to approximately 15 kW on the 40’ model, the Ecos PowerCube® can be transported by land, air or sea and is ideally suited to support off-grid agricultural, military, emergency/disaster relief, humanitarian and wireless communication efforts for remote applications around the world.


The Ecos PowerCube® is protected by U.S. Patent No. 8,593,102.


Market Opportunities


The Company began its web based marketing campaign shortly after the U.S. patent was awarded in Q4 2013. During 2014, the first Ecos PowerCube® prototype was manufactured. The Company has met with several potential licensees since the completion of the first Ecos PowerCube® and as of the date of this report, no sales have been initiated and the Company has not entered in to a Licensing Agreement for this technology. The Ecos PowerCube®’s ability to provide off-grid micro utility needs has applicability in numerous global markets and sub markets including, but not limited to:


·

Industrial Remote Utilities

·

Off-Grid Telecommunication Base Stations / Cell Tower Support



3



 


·

Military Base stations / Remote Utilities

·

Humanitarian Relief and Emergency / Disaster Preparedness

·

Remote Habitation

·

And More (i.e. Solar Powered Wi-Fi, Survivalists & Preppers, Infrastructure & Construction, Remote Mining Camps, Temporary Entertainment Events & Venues, Off-grid Research Stations, Equipment Rental & Leasing, Portable Power Generation, etc.)


Awards and Accolades


Ecosphere’s patented Ecos PowerCube® technology was recently recognized as a winner in the 2014 Best of What's New Awards from Popular Science and named one of the Top 100 Innovations of 2014. Featured in the Green category of the December 2014 special "Best of What's New" issue.


Intellectual Property Protection


After approximately seven years under review in the United States Patent office, Ecosphere received issuance of a U.S. patent for the Ecos PowerCube® in November 2013.


The U.S. patent expires in December 2027.


This patent relates to a portable, self-sustaining solar power station.


ECOS GROWCUBE™


The Ecos GrowCube™ is a turn-key, fully-automated hydroponic greenhouse that is Made in the USA and fabricated out of aircraft-grade aluminum. An Ecos GrowCube™ utilizes hydroponic growing techniques in order to maximize the amount of crop production possible in a given footprint and eliminates the need for soil, fossil fuels, pesticides and toxic chemicals.


Market Opportunities


The Ecos GrowCube™ offers commercial and residential farmers the opportunity to grow a wide range of crops in a fully automated and controlled environment virtually anywhere in the world. It is a turn-key solution for the small to medium sized, highly focused hydroponic growers producing high-value crops. Potential market opportunities include, but are not limited to:


·

Medical marijuana cultivation in states where growing is legal under state law

·

High-value crop cultivation, such as essential oils

·

Urban farming / On-site cultivation for hotels, restaurants, universities and large personnel bases


In lieu of the complexities and “low-tech” alternative of creating a traditional grow site through, for example, renovating a warehouse or using low-end, renovated shipping containers, the Ecos GrowCube™ provides a “plug-and-play” state-of-the-art solution that provides the highest quality conditions under which the most premium plants can be cultivated.


The initial path to market for the Ecos GrowCube™ is planned unit leases and sales to licensed medical marijuana dispensaries, co-ops and medical collectives. These licensed dispensaries and collectives will grow and distribute marijuana to their members possessing state-issued medical marijuana cards. The Ecos GrowCube™ will enable licensed medical marijuana dispensaries and collectives to produce the highest quality medical-grade marijuana product and capture the greatest yield per plant in a state-of-the-art, fully automated, safe and secure growing environment. In addition to leasing Ecos GrowCube™ equipment on a monthly basis to licensed growers (or outright sales), the Company believes that growers that want to maintain their present method of growing can improve their quality and yields by hiring the Company to engineer their operations using its multi-patented Ozonix® and other proprietary technologies.

Intellectual Property Portfolio


Ecosphere has an extensive portfolio of patents and trademarks that have been filed are pending and approved in various locations around the world, including eleven (11) approved United States patents related to Ozonix®, eleven (11) United States and International Ozonix® patents pending and one (1) United States patent related to the Ecos PowerCube®. Also, to ensure the highest water quality and increase plant yield, the recently announced Ecos GrowCube™ incorporates Ecosphere’s multi-patented Ozonix® water treatment technology, which is fully patented, proven and protected by the twenty two (22) patents and patents pending listed above. Ozonix® is used to not only treat and recycle water in the Ecos GrowCube™ but to structure the water and allow better nutrient mixing for maximum respiration of nutrients to the plants.


Ecosphere’s patented technologies can be licensed through ICAP Patent Brokerage, the world's largest intellectual property brokerage firm, for specific industries and applications in the United States and throughout the world.



4



 


Historical Intellectual Property Monetization


Ecosphere has a history and track record of successfully monetizing its intellectual property and technology. Ecosphere’s first successful intellectual property commercialization project was a patented coatings removal process that removed paint from ships in the heavy marine industry using a patented ultra-high pressure robotic coatings removal technology that magnetically attached to the surface of a ship and was controlled wirelessly by an operator. Ecosphere’s robotic coatings removal technology was sold in 2007. At this point, Ecosphere began to focus all of its efforts on its proprietary water and wastewater treatment technology that was developed to support the robotic coatings removal process.


In 2009, Ecosphere formed FNES, to license its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology across the global energy sector. Since 2008, Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® technology has enabled oil and gas customers to treat, recycle and reuse over five (5) billion gallons of water on more than 1,200 oil and natural gas wells, protecting $5 billion worth of well assets, and generating over $70 million in revenue.


From a technical standpoint, Ecosphere has proven the Ozonix® process in the most technologically challenging treatment market sector, the oil and gas segment of the energy industry; therefore, Ecosphere believes that the technological risks faced when entering the other target sectors and industries are significantly diminished. From a business standpoint, Ecosphere has successfully created a subsidiary to target the energy industry (one of numerous target markets) and a recent transaction in 2013 valued just this one subsidiary at $50 million. It is important for shareholders to note that in 2009 when FNES was initially established and the technology was not yet commercially or technologically proven, FNF invested $7.5 million in FNES at a $37.5 million valuation to build Ozonix® equipment that is in use today.


Ecosphere’s strategy is to further leverage its multi-patented Ozonix®, Ecos PowerCube® and Ecos GrowCube™ technology portfolios via widespread partnering and licensing to achieve substantial technology deployment and the corresponding revenue and profit growth.


Active Subsidiaries and Investments


Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC or FNES


FNES, a leading water treatment provider to the energy services sector, has an exclusive field-of-use license for Ecosphere's multi-patented Ozonix® technology for global energy applications including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and natural gas exploration and production, power generation, refineries and coal. FNES currently provides licensing partners and energy exploration companies with patented Ozonix® mobile wastewater treatment equipment to eliminate harmful chemicals from hydraulic fracturing operations around the United States. More recently, FNES expanded sales to Canada.


Ecosphere currently owns 30.6% of FNES and is the exclusive manufacturer of all Ozonix® related products. Its exclusive manufacturing rights expire in May 2015.


Ecosphere Mining, LLC


Ecosphere Mining, LLC is a subsidiary of Ecosphere that has been granted an exclusive field-of-use license for Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® technology for the global hardrock mining industry. In the hardrock mining industry, Ozonix® can be used to treat ores to increase ore recovery rates and reduce the amount of cyanide or chemical lixiviant required for hydrometallurgical extraction and also mitigate environmental effects associated with conventional cyanide leaching techniques.


Ecosphere’s Ozonix® water treatment technology is a clean, cost-effective solution for reducing and reusing the residual wastewater streams produced in the mining industry – which we believe can help customers increase profitability, decrease production costs and reduce overall chemical consumption, while protecting the environment and surrounding water resources of large heritage lands.




5



 


Sea of Green Systems, Inc.


Sea of Green Systems, Inc. (“SOG”) is a newly formed subsidiary of Ecosphere Technologies Inc. that has been formed to monetize Ecosphere’s recently announced Ecos GrowCube™ technology and Ozonix® product lines. The subsidiary has received a royalty-free, global field-of-use license for the Ecos GrowCube™ as well as Ecosphere’s multi-patented Ozonix® water treatment technology and related growing technologies and automated software for all hydroponic related applications globally. Ecosphere has spent much of 2014 and 2015 to date concentrating on designing, developing and more recently, manufacturing the first Ecos GrowCube™. During this process Ecosphere has gained invaluable knowledge of being able to implement its Ozonix® process and its automation software for growers considering any size grow operation. For the licensed growers that prefer to not rent multiple Ecos GrowCube™, but use a building or warehouse, SOG can engineer their space and implement Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® process and proprietary automation software in their operations.


The initial focus will be the legal medical and recreational marijuana markets in states where local law permits the use medically and/or recreationally.


Additionally, due to its green technology, the Ecos GrowCube™ can be used in the “farm-to-table”, urban farming and organic farming movements.


On April 14, 2015, the Company and SOG closed an initial $100,000 transaction with an investment fund (the “Fund’).  In exchange the Company issued the Fund a $100,000 12.5% convertible note due in six-months which note shall be convertible either into common stock of a publicly held entity which acquires SOG (“PubCo”) or the Company.  If SOG has been acquired PubCo as of the payment date, the note will convert into PubCo common stock at 85% of the offering price in the financing conducted by PubCo in conjunction with the acquisition of SOG; otherwise it will be convertible into the Company’s common stock at a conversion price equal to $0.115 per share.  In addition, the Fund received five-year warrants to purchase 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s common stock exercisable at $0.115 per share.  The Company is seeking to raise up to $500,000 (or an additional $400,000) on the above terms.  Although, no public company has been identified to the Company, the Fund has indicated that it is aware of a candidate.  The terms of any acquisition by PubCo are presently unknown, although it is anticipated that the Company will have control of PubCo following consummation of such transaction and the anticipated contemporaneous financing.


Description of Business Over Five Years


Over the past five years, we have concentrated on developing and improving our Ozonix® technology and the equipment through which we deliver services to oil and gas exploration companies. Our initial Ozonix® product line was called Ecos-Frac® tank. We manufactured and began testing the prototype of the Ecos-Frac® tank in the first quarter of 2009. In July 2009, we entered into a two-year Master Service Agreement with two subsidiaries of Southwestern Energy and received a work order under this Agreement for the deployment of Ecos-Frac® tanks to pre-treat water used to fracture natural gas wells in the Fayetteville Shale. Until May 2014, Southwestern Energy was a customer of FNES.


In 2009, Ecosphere also entered into an agreement with Newfield Exploration Co., which used our Ecos-Brine® technology in the Woodford, Shale, and Oklahoma to treat flowback waters. Following approval by the Corporation Commission of Oklahoma in July 2009, we began providing services to Newfield. Until November 2013, Newfield was a customer of FNES.


In 2010, FNES continued to provide services to both Southwestern and Newfield. In late 2009 and early 2010, we delivered Ecos-Frac® units to FNES for use in the Fayetteville Shale in Arkansas. During the summer of 2010, Ecosphere and FNES made a significant effort to generate business by assisting in the Gulf oil spill clean-up. Like many other companies, which believed they had chemical-free solutions for separating the oil from the ocean and marshes, our efforts were not successful in securing a contract with BP. Additionally, in 2010, we had identified the full opportunities for Ozonix® technologies outside of energy and began limited efforts to generate interest from a potential customer or partner. In late 2010, we formed a new mining subsidiary and commenced initial efforts to raise seed capital, which were not successful.


In March 2011, Ecosphere and FNES entered into a 20-year definitive agreement with Hydrozonix, LLC (“Hydrozonix”). That agreement granted an exclusive technology license agreement with Hydrozonix to deploy the Ozonix® technology in the United States for the on-shore oil and gas industry. Hydrozonix agreed to purchase two units per quarter over a two-year period. In the third quarter of 2011, we manufactured and delivered the initial two units and followed with an additional two units late in the fourth quarter of 2011. The bulk of our efforts in 2011 were focused on the design and manufacturing of Ozonix® EF80 units for Hydrozonix. Meanwhile, 2011 was a record year. We generated $21.1 million of revenue.




6



 


In 2012, we continued the manufacturing and delivery of Ozonix® EF80 units to Hydrozonix. FNES continued its services to its energy customers. In 2012, we generated record revenues of $31.1 million, again with the increase due to the sale of 12 Ozonix® EF80 units to Hydrozonix.


In 2013, we experienced a change in a relationship with Hydrozonix. During the first quarter as required by our agreement, we manufactured units 13 and 14. However, Hydrozonix was unable to pay for the units and in mid-April 2013, lost its exclusive license. We ultimately sold units 13 and 14 later in the year to FNES in exchange for cash and monthly payments over a three-year period. The Company has since sold the Notes Receivable for the two Ozonix® EF80 units in exchange for $2.4 million, FNES makes monthly payments to the note holders, but in January 2015, FNES entered into a forbearance agreement with the note holders which waives monthly payments through June 30, 2015. FNES will pay $15,000 per month per note payable beginning July 1, 2015 through the notes due dates. In May and July, Fidelity National Financial, Inc. [NYSE:FNF], a Fortune 500 company, increased its investment in FNES by paying Ecosphere $10 million for 20% of that subsidiary. Ecosphere’s management team estimates that this sale represents approximately 2% of the estimated value of Ecosphere’s global Ozonix® intellectual property portfolio. Once we fell below the 50% ownership threshold, we ceased to be the managing member. FNF also obtained an option to purchase an additional 12% for $6 million by December 31, 2013 and that option lapsed.


In June 2013, Ecosphere announced its newest product for the oil and gas hydraulic fracturing market, the Ozonix® EF10M. The Ozonix® EF10M comes as an addition to Ecosphere’s highly successful line of Ecos-Frac® mobile water treatment products that have been used to treat and recycle over five billion gallons of water for more than 1,200 oil and natural gas wells around the United States.


In November 2013, the Company sold its first Ozonix® EF10M to FNES, which was later sold to Hydrosphere Energy Solutions (“Hydrosphere”), a Canadian sub-licensee of FNES in January 2014.


In December 2013, Ecosphere announced completion of its first Ozonix® Ore Recovery Equipment system for Ecosphere Mining, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ecosphere and a new Mobile Operations Vehicle that is designed to remain on location for extended periods of time when Ecosphere is demonstrating its Ozonix® system for customers around the United States. In November 2014, Ecosphere sold the Mobile Operations Vehicle.


Late in 2013, the United States Patent Office (“USPTO”), after seven years, issued a patent for our Ecos PowerCube®. As a result, we spent a significant portion of 2014 designing and manufacturing multiple prototypes and have begun to seek a financial or strategic partner to license the Ecos PowerCube® for numerous industries and applications globally.


In January 2014, Ecosphere announced that FNES signed an exclusive technology licensing and equipment purchase agreement with Hydrosphere, a Canadian corporation, to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology in Alberta and the Northeast part of British Columbia, Canada. Under the terms of the agreement, Hydrosphere Energy Solutions is required to purchase: one Ozonix® EF10M unit for immediate delivery, eight Ozonix® EF10 units within the first 12 months, one Ozonix® EF80 unit within the first 12 months and a minimum of two Ozonix® EF80's within 24 months following the delivery of the first purchased Ozonix® units. Hydrosphere has also agreed to pay on-going royalty payments to FNES on all water processed in the licensed territory. So long as the commitments are met, Hydrosphere shall remain the exclusive sub-licensed partner of FNES in the Alberta and Northeast British Columbia, Canada for all hydraulic fracturing applications. Hydrosphere has not met the criteria listed above to maintain its exclusivity.


In July 2014, Ecosphere announced an exclusive technology licensing and equipment purchase agreement with Brasil Clean Energy ("BCE"), a Brazilian environmental services company, to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology across the food and beverage industry in Brazil. Under the terms of the agreement, BCE is required to purchase a minimum of $5 million worth of Ozonix® equipment during the next two years, plus a royalty payment based on usage or revenue, with a minimum amount earned per machine. In September 2014, the Company completed manufacturing, testing and delivery of BCE's first piece of equipment, an Ozonix® EF10M mobile water treatment system capable of treating approximately 420 gallons-per-minute in a 10x12 footprint.


In November 2014, Ecosphere formed SOG to begin to execute on its monetization strategy for the recently announced Ecos GrowCube™ technology and product line. The subsidiary has received a royalty-free, global field of use license for the Ecos GrowCube™ as well as Ecosphere’s multi-patented Ozonix® water treatment technology for all hydroponic related applications globally. SOG will immediately deploy its GrowCube™ technology into the legal, medical marijuana industry by leasing and selling GrowCube™ units to licensed medical marijuana growers in legalized states. It should be noted that SOG will strictly sell and lease state-of-the-art hydroponic growing systems to growers; it will not partake in any part of the growing process and or take ownership positions in customers’ crops.




7



 


In January 2015, Ecosphere signed an exclusive technology licensing agreement with US H20, Inc. (“USH20”), to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology on an exclusive basis in the United States for the landfill leachate and marine port & terminal fields-of-use. Under the terms of the license agreement, USH20 was required to pay Ecosphere an upfront technology licensing fee in addition to ongoing royalty payments on all Ozonix® related gross revenue for the life of the patents.


In April 2015, Ecosphere announced the recent receipt of a $650,000 purchase order for an Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system by Kualiti Alam SDN BHD, a Malaysian waste management and renewable energy solutions provider, to be used for industrial wastewater treatment applications in Malaysia. Kualiti Alam SDN BHD paid Ecosphere a deposit for the Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system and manufacturing has begun at Ecosphere's Corporate Headquarters in Stuart, Florida USA. Under the terms of the equipment purchase agreement, the Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system is scheduled to be delivered in July 2015.


In April 2015, Ecosphere received approval from the USPTO for patent no. 8,999,154. This patent teaches a method for Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® water treatment technology to increase and maintain desired oxygen levels in the C-44 Canal (St. Lucie Canal) that feeds the St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon. The contaminated water is introduced into the St. Lucie Canal from the polluted waters of Lake Okeechobee. The St. Lucie Estuary and Indian River Lagoon are one of the most bio diverse ecosystems in North America, with more than 4,000 plant and animal species, including 36 endangered and threatened species.


Sales and Marketing


We rely on our officers and employees for the coordination of our sales and marketing efforts. Management uses our website, www.ecospheretech.com, and search engine optimization marketing programs as well as inbound marketing techniques to bring potential customers to our website to learn about our unique technologies and product offerings. We have developed a marketing and communications strategy with our creative advertising agency to market our patented technologies. Current marketing opportunities include attendance at key trade shows and presentations to industry groups as appropriate. Ecosphere also employs ICAP Patent Brokerage, the world’s largest intellectual property firm, as its exclusive intellectual property brokerage firm. ICAP Patent Brokerage is responsible with helping the Company identify and manage prospective licensing partners throughout the world. A director of Ecosphere is the President of ICAP Patent. In 2013, Ecosphere engaged The Blueshirt Group to serve as its integrated investor and public relations firm. As part of its corporate communication services, this firm provides Ecosphere with business and press coverage, which helps promote Ecosphere's patented technologies and innovative solutions.


Manufacturing


Ecosphere designs, develops and manufactures all of its technologies and equipment at our Company headquarters in Stuart, Florida using our in-house production facilities and a network of selected original equipment manufacturers to supply components. Our design engineering and manufacturing teams continue to improve our products at this manufacturing and production facility.


We have invested in proven development techniques including CAD/CAM, finite element analysis and 3D modeling. In addition, during 2010, Ecosphere secured an adjacent building to provide for expansion of our manufacturing capabilities, and we have continued to invest in additional machining tools and equipment to bring more fabrication in-house. This reduces both our cost and time to completion for units being built in this facility. We also believe that there is a benefit in increased quality. We have also expanded our manufacturing staff capabilities through training or specialized hires. We expect to continue this investment, as we believe this will produce significant benefits in terms of higher quality, faster completion and lower costs. Certain processes and components will continue to be fabricated offsite. We also continue to invest in maintaining our ISO 9000 certification.


Research and Development


During the year ended December 31, 2014, Ecosphere spent approximately $241,000 on research and development.




8



 


Intangible Assets


Because of generally accepted accounting principles and SEC accounting rules, Ecosphere is required to value its patents and patents pending at the cost it pays its counsel to process and maintain those patents. This type of accounting method does not take in to account the actual fair value of the intellectual property created that can be licensed to customers and industry leaders for the 20-year life of the patents. Ecosphere’s unique patents allow Ecosphere the sole right to exclude others from making, using or selling its proprietary solutions. Ecosphere’s patents also allow Ecosphere to monetize its assets for shareholders by granting local, regional or global field-of-use licenses to industry specific partners.


Employees


At April 1, 2015 we had 29 total employees. This does not include FNES employees. None of our employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. We believe that our relationships with our employees are good.


ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS.


Not applicable to smaller reporting companies.


ITEM 1B.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.

 

None.


ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES.


Ecosphere rents three contiguous buildings in Stuart, Florida comprising an aggregate of 21,100 square feet of space. Our aggregate monthly rent is $16,744. The first building houses the corporate offices, the second building provides warehouse, manufacturing and testing space and the third building provides additional warehouse and machine shop space. All of these buildings are rented on a month-to-month basis.


Ecosphere leases offices in Park City, UT, comprising approximately 2,172 square feet of space which will be our administrative offices for Ecosphere Mining, LLC. The aggregate monthly rent for 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 is $3,682, $3,792, $3,906 and $4,024, respectively.


ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.


The Company received a ruling on August 8, 2014 after the close of market regarding its arbitration proceeding filed with the American Arbitration Association in February 2013 against Halliburton Energy Services, Inc. (“Halliburton”).


The arbitration claim included a count alleging that Halliburton had breached a 2009 Joint Confidentiality Agreement and converted or misappropriated Ecosphere’s trade secrets related to Ecosphere’s patented advanced oxidation process of treating and recycling water used in the hydraulic fracturing of oil and natural gas wells. During the term of the Confidentiality Agreement, Halliburton offered to purchase Ecosphere, but negotiations broke down and Halliburton subsequently began to advertise an advanced oxidation process of treating and recycling water for use in the hydraulic fracturing of oil and natural gas wells, and filed three related patent applications with the U.S. Patent Office.


During the arbitration proceeding, Halliburton admitted it had not commercialized a similar advanced oxidation process and had no intentions to commercialize such a process; accordingly Ecosphere voluntarily withdrew that count from the proceeding. The remaining count was directed to the three patent applications filed with the U.S. Patent Office that described a process similar to Ecosphere’s advanced oxidation process of treating and recycling water. Halliburton subsequently expressly abandoned the applications.


The arbitration panel denied Ecosphere’s claims for damages as well as Halliburton’s claims to be reimbursed for attorney’s fees. The panel ruled that both parties pay their own fees, costs and expenses (including fees and expenses of counsel and experts) in connection with the arbitration.


From time to time, we are party to certain legal proceedings that arise in the ordinary course and are incidental to our business. During the period covered by this report, except as described above, there were no material changes to any pending legal proceedings to which we are a party.


ITEM 4.

MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.


None.



9



 


PART II

 

ITEM 5.

MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.

 

MARKET FOR COMMON STOCK


Our stock trades on the Bulletin Board, under the symbol “ESPH.” The last reported sale price of our common stock as reported by the Bulletin Board on April 8, 2015 was $0.135. As of that date, we had approximately 1,303 record holders of our common stock and we believe that there are substantially more beneficial owners than record holders.


The following table provides the high and low bid price information for our common stock for the periods our stock was quoted on the Bulletin Board. For the period our stock was quoted on the Bulletin Board, the prices reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and does not necessarily represent actual transactions.


 

 

 

 

Prices

 

Year

 

Period Ended

 

High

 

 

Low

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

December 31

 

$

0.19

 

 

$

0.08

 

 

 

September 30

 

$

0.18

 

 

$

0.07

 

 

 

June 30

 

$

0.22

 

 

$

0.15

 

 

 

March 31

 

$

0.30

 

 

$

0.19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2013

 

December 31

 

$

0.33

 

 

$

0.22

 

 

 

September 30

 

$

0.35

 

 

$

0.21

 

 

 

June 30

 

$

0.44

 

 

$

0.12

 

 

 

March 31

 

$

0.50

 

 

$

0.34

 


Dividend Policy


In June 2013, we issued a 5% stock dividend. Our Series A preferred stock provides for annual cash dividends at the rate of $3,750 per share, and our Series B preferred stock provides for annual cash dividends at the rate of $250 per share. Dividends payable on Series A preferred stock have preference over Series B dividends and any dividends declared on our common stock. Dividends payable on Series B preferred stock have preference over any dividends declared on our common stock. The dividends on our outstanding preferred are cumulative and we have not been in default by failing to pay these dividends.


We do not plan to pay additional dividends in the foreseeable future. Our Board will determine our future dividend policy on the basis of many factors, including results of operations, capital requirements, and general business conditions. Earnings, if any, will be retained to finance our growth.


Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities


None.


ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA.


None.



10



 


ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.

 

This discussion should be read in conjunction with the other sections contained herein, including the risk factors and the consolidated financial statements and the related exhibits contained herein. The various sections of this discussion contain a number of forward-looking statements, all of which are based on our current expectations and could be affected by the uncertainties and risk factors described throughout this filing as well as other matters over which we have no control. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including, but not limited to, those set forth herein. See “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”


Company Overview


Ecosphere is a U.S. technology licensing and innovative manufacturing company that develops environmental solutions for global markets. We help industry increase production, reduce costs, and protect the environment through a portfolio of more than 35 patented and patent pending clean water and clean energy technologies:  technologies like Ozonix®,Ecos PowerCube® and Ecos GrowCube™, which are licensable across a wide range of industries and applications throughout the world via ICAP Patent Brokerage, the world’s largest intellectual property brokerage firm.


Key Recent highlights include:


·

In 2014, Ecosphere received a United States patent on its Ecos PowerCube® solar panel array technology. Ecosphere completed extensive design engineering and began the manufacturing of its first Ecos PowerCube® system in 2014 and is now actively seeking to license it to government contractors and commercial customers around the world.

·

Ecospheres patented Ecos PowerCube® technology was recognized as a winner in the 2014 Best of What's New Awards from Popular Science and named One of the Top 100 Innovations of 2014. Featured in the Green Category of the December 2014 special "Best of What's New" issue, Popular Science reviews approximately 20,000 new products and only considers those products which it believes have present commercial viability.

·

In November 2014, Ecosphere announced the launch of its Ecos GrowCube™ technology, an innovative, state-of-the-art, fully-automated growing system that utilizes hydroponic growing techniques in order to maximize the amount of crop production possible in a given footprint. The Ecos GrowCube™ incorporates Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® water treatment technology and eliminates the need for soil, fossil fuels, pesticides and toxic chemicals. The Company anticipates the completion of the first Ecos GrowCube™ next week which is to be used for demonstrations in the coming months and to begin SOG operations.

·

Ecosphere has formed a new subsidiary, SOG to commercialize the Ecos GrowCube. The initial focus will be the legal medical marijuana market in states where local law permits the use medically and/or recreationally. This market is rapidly expanding as more states legalize marijuana use. Additionally, due to its Green technology, the Ecos GrowCube™ can be used in the “farm-to-table”, urban farming and organic farming movements.

·

With the assistance of the Fund that recently invested $100,000, the Companys plan is to spin off SOG as another public company that will be owned controlled by Pubco.

·

In July 2014, Ecosphere announced an exclusive technology licensing and equipment purchase agreement with Brasil Clean Energy ("BCE"), a Brazilian environmental services company, to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology across the Food and Beverage industry in Brazil. Under the terms of the agreement, BCE is required to purchase a minimum of $5 million worth of Ozonix® equipment during the next two years, plus a royalty payment based on usage or revenue, with a minimum amount earned per machine. In September 2014, the Company completed manufacturing, testing and acceptance of BCE's first piece of equipment, an Ozonix® EF10M mobile water treatment system capable of treating approximately 420 gallons-per-minute in a 10x12 footprint.

·

In January 2015, Ecosphere signed an exclusive technology licensing agreement with US H20, Inc. (“USH20”), to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology on an exclusive basis in the United States for the Landfill Leachate and Marine Port & Terminal fields-of-use. Under the terms of the license agreement, USH20 was required to pay Ecosphere an upfront technology licensing fee in addition to ongoing royalty payments on all Ozonix® related gross revenue for the life of the patents.

·

In April 2015, Ecosphere announced the recent receipt of a purchase order for an Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system by Kualiti Alam SDN BHD, a Malaysian waste management and renewable energy solutions provider, for industrial wastewater treatment applications in Malaysia. Kualiti Alam SDN BHD made a deposit toward the purchase of the Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system and manufacturing has begun at Ecosphere’s Corporate Headquarters in Stuart, Florida USA. Under the terms of the equipment purchase agreement, the Ozonix® EF10M water treatment system is scheduled to be delivered in July 2015.




11



 


Intellectual Property Portfolio


Because of generally accepted accounting principles and SEC accounting rules, Ecosphere’s patents and patents pending are reflected in its unaudited consolidated balance sheet based on the cost it pays its counsel to process and maintain those patents. This type of accounting method does not take into account the actual fair value of the intellectual property created that can be licensed to customers and industry leaders for the 20-year life of the patents. Ecosphere’s unique patents allow Ecosphere the sole right to exclude others from making, using or selling its proprietary solutions. Ecosphere’s patents also allow Ecosphere to monetize its assets for shareholders by granting local, regional or global field-of-use licenses to industry-specific partners.


History of Product and Application Development


Since 2008, the Company has incurred in excess of $5.5 million in developing its current line of products and industry specific applications utilizing its intellectual property.  Such costs are exclusive of amounts paid to executive officers or our chief technology officer, who spends a significant portion of his time on research and development, and indirect general and administrative tasks. Included in these development costs are engineering salaries and benefits, direct research and development costs, and costs related to the Company’s manufacturing and engineering facilities in Stuart, Florida.  These efforts, along with costs incurred directly related to the generation of over $70 million in revenue from the use of the Company’s intellectual property within the oil and gas industry, have resulted in the Company’s current intellectual property portfolio being available for license for various industries and applications as follows:


Business Model


The Company’s management team executes on a business strategy that is driven by open innovation and innovative manufacturing. “Open Innovation” is a concept that was developed by Dr. Henry Chesbrough, the Executive Director of the Center for Open Innovation at the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley. The Open Innovation concept provides a formula whereby small companies can rapidly develop and deploy new technologies and then license those technologies to larger organizations for rapid market penetration. In response to this concept, we developed the “Open Innovation Network,” our product development lifecycle that can be characterized by the following six stages:


1.

Identify a major environmental challenge,

2.

Invent new technologies and file patents,

3.

Partner with industry leaders,

4.

Commercialize and prove the technology with ongoing services paid for by customers and industry leaders,

5.

License the patented, commercialized technologies to well capitalized partners that are geographically located, and

6.

Create recurring revenues and increase shareholder value.

———————

1 “Number of Legal Medical Marijuana Patients (as of October 27, 2014),” ProCon.org.  See, Liquor Control Board Could Allow More Pot Growing in Washington,” KVEW TV, October 17, 2014.  See, http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005889.



12



 


As a result, the Company has designed, developed, manufactured and commercialized a wide variety of patented technologies that are currently solving some of the world’s most critical water and environmental challenges. Our multi-patented Ozonix® technology is a revolutionary, high volume, AOP designed to treat and recycle industrial wastewater without the use of toxic chemicals, while our Ecos PowerCube® is the world’s largest, mobile patented solar-powered generator. In addition to the Company’s patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies, the Company has recently announced the launch of the Ecos GrowCube™ technology and product line, which is the world’s most state-of-the-art, fully-automated hydroponic growing system for cultivating high-value crops.


As a result, the Company has developed an extensive portfolio of intellectual property that includes more than 35 patented and patent-pending technologies that are available for exclusive and nonexclusive licensing opportunities throughout the world. These patented technologies and corresponding trademarks can be purchased and licensed for use in large-scale and sustainable applications across industries, nations and ecosystems. Companies that license our patented technologies are able to improve their financial metrics while also reducing their ecological and environmental footprints. Although our other technologies and patents remain a viable part of our long-term technology licensing strategy, the Company is currently focused on licensing its multi-patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies, as well as leasing and selling its Ecos GrowCube™ systems.


Recent Success


Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® technology has been commercially proven in the oil and gas hydraulic fracturing industry and is currently being used by FNES and its sub-licensing partners around the United States and Canada. FNES has an exclusive field-of-use license for Ecosphere's patented Ozonix® technology for global energy applications including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and natural gas exploration and production, power generation, refineries and coal. In addition to its current operations, FNES has two sub-licensing partners, which include Hydrozonix, LLC in the United States and Hydrosphere Energy Solutions, LLC in the territory of Alberta and North East British Columbia, Canada. Since 2009, FNES and its sub-licensing partners have enabled oil and gas customers to treat, recycle and reuse over 5 billion gallons of water for more than 1,200 oil and natural gas wells around the United States and Canada in all major shale plays including, but not limited to, Fayetteville, Haynesville, Woodford, Eagle Ford, Bakken, Marcellus and Permian Basin; protecting $5 billion worth of well assets and generating over $70 million in revenue.


Ecosphere and FNES have received numerous awards and accolades for its patented and proven Ozonix® water treatment solutions for the energy sector, including but not limited to:


·

2013 Oil and Gas Awards - Water Management Company of the Year Award, Midcontinent Region;

·

2013 Bloomberg New Energy Finance Awards - New Energy Pioneer;

·

2013 IHS CERAWeek - Energy Innovation Pioneer Award;

·

2013 American Technology Awards - "Clean Tech/Green Tech" Winner;

·

2013 World Technology Awards - Corporate "Environment" Category Winner;

·

2013 Governors Innovators in Business Awards by Enterprise Florida Rising Star;

·

2012 Frost & Sullivan North American Product Leadership Award in Disinfection Equipment for Shale Oil and Gas Wastewater Treatment; and

·

2010, 2011, 2012 Artemis "Top 50 Water Technologies" Winner.


Outside of the energy industry, Ecosphere has recently signed multiple exclusive and nonexclusive technology licensing and equipment purchase agreements with customers in diverse industries from around the world, discussed above.  


Critical Accounting Estimates


Use of Estimates


The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates in the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, valuation of inventory, estimates of depreciable lives and valuation of property and equipment, estimates of amortization periods for intangible assets, valuation of beneficial conversion features in convertible debt, valuation of equity based instruments issued for other than cash, valuation of derivatives, valuation of remaining interest in FNES upon deconsolidation and the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets.



13



 


Revenue Recognition


For each of our revenue sources we have the following policies:


Equipment and Component Sales


Revenues and related costs on production type contracts are recognized using the “percentage of completion method” of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35, Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production Type Contracts (“ASC 605-35”). Under this method, contract revenues and related expenses are recognized over the performance period of the contract in direct proportion to the costs incurred as a percentage of total estimated costs for the entirety of the contract. Costs include direct material, direct labor, subcontract labor and any allocable indirect costs. All unallocable indirect costs and corporate general and administrative costs are charged to the periods as incurred. However, in the event a loss on a contract is foreseen, the Company will recognize the loss as it is determined. Contract costs plus recognized profits are accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received are recorded to a deferred revenue liability account. The net of these two accounts for any individual project is presented as "Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts," an asset account, or "Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts," a liability account.


Production type contracts that do not qualify for use of the percentage of completion method, the Company accounts for these contracts using the “completed contract method” of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35-25-57. Under this method, contract costs are accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received is recorded to a deferred revenue liability account, during the periods of construction, but no revenues, costs, or profits are recognized in operations until the period within which completion of the contract occurs. Costs include direct material, direct labor, subcontract labor and any allocable indirect costs. All unallocable indirect costs and corporate general and administrative costs are charged to the periods as incurred. However, in the event a loss on a contract is foreseen, the Company will recognize the loss as it is determined. The deferred asset (accumulated contract costs) in excess of the deferred liability (billings and/or cash received) is classified as a current asset under "Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts". The deferred liability (billings and/or cash received) in excess of the deferred asset (accumulated contract costs) is classified under current liabilities as "Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts".


A contract is considered complete when all costs except insignificant items have been incurred; the equipment is operating according to specifications and has been accepted by the customer.


The Company may manufacture products in anticipation of a future contract. Since there are no binding contracts relating to the purchase of these products, ASC 605-35 is not applicable. Accordingly, revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, products are delivered to and accepted by the customer, economic risk of loss has passed to the customer, the price is fixed or determinable, collection is reasonably assured, and any future obligations of the Company are insignificant.


Field Services


Revenue from water treatment contracts is earned based upon the volume of water processed plus additional period based contractual charges and is recognized in the period the service is provided. Payments received in advance of the performance of services or of the delivery of goods are deferred as liabilities until the services are performed or the goods are delivered.


Some projects the Company undertakes are based upon our providing water processing services for fixed periods of time. Revenue from these projects is recognized based upon the number of days the service has been provided during the reporting period.


After Market Part Sales


The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of aftermarket parts during the period in which the parts are delivered to the buyer.


Royalties


Revenue from technology licensing royalties will be recorded if and as the royalties are earned. No royalty revenue has been earned to date.


The Company includes shipping and handling fees billed to customers in revenues and shipping and handling costs in cost of revenues.



14



 


Stock-Based Compensation


Compensation expense for all stock-based employee and director compensation awards granted is based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation (“ASC Topic 718”). The Company recognizes these compensation costs on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, which is generally the option vesting term. Vesting terms vary based on the individual grant terms.


The Company estimates the fair value of stock-based compensation awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton (“BSM”) option pricing model, which was developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are freely transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. The BSM option pricing model considers, among other factors, the expected term of the award and the expected volatility of the Company’s stock price. Expected terms are calculated using the Simplified Method, volatility is determined based on the Company's historical stock price trends and the discount rate is based upon treasury rates with instruments of similar expected terms. Warrants granted to non-employees are accounted for in accordance with the measurement and recognition criteria of ASC Topic 505-50, Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees.


Investment in Unconsolidated Investee


The Company accounts for investments in which the Company owns more than 20% of the investee, using the equity method in accordance with ASC Topic 323, Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures. Under the equity method, an investor initially records an investment in the stock of an investee at cost, and adjusts the carrying amount of the investment to recognize the investor's share of the earnings or losses of the investee after the date of acquisition. The amount of the adjustment is included in the determination of net income by the investor, and such amount reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between investor cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment. The investment of an investor is also adjusted to reflect the investor's share of changes in the investee's capital. Dividends received from an investee reduce the carrying amount of the investment. A series of operating losses of an investee or other factors may indicate that a decrease in value of the investment has occurred which is other than temporary and which should be recognized even though the decrease in value is in excess of what would otherwise be recognized by application of the equity method.




15



 


Results of Operations


Comparison of the Year ended December 31, 2014 with the Year ended December 31, 2013

 

The following table sets forth a modified version of our Consolidated Statements of Operations that is used in the following discussions of our results of operations:


RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


 

 

For the Years Ended

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

Change

 

Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equipment sales and licensing

 

$

530,550

 

 

$

 

 

$

530,550

 

Equipment sales and licensing, related party

 

 

524,525

 

 

 

4,759,478

 

 

 

(4,234,953

)

Field services

 

 

 

 

 

1,547,786

 

 

 

(1,547,786

)

Aftermarket part sales

 

 

24,549

 

 

 

287,724

 

 

 

(263,175

)

Aftermarket part sales, related party

 

 

40,255

 

 

 

124,827

 

 

 

(84,572

)

Total revenues

 

 

1,119,879

 

 

 

6,719,815

 

 

 

(5,599,936

)

Costs and expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equipment sales and licensing costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

813,005

 

 

 

4,059,136

 

 

 

(3,246,131

)

Field services costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

 

 

 

721,214

 

 

 

(721,214

)

Aftermarket part costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

56,486

 

 

 

304,758

 

 

 

(248,272

)

Salaries and employee benefits

 

 

3,233,352

 

 

 

5,544,387

 

 

 

(2,311,035

)

Administrative and selling

 

 

524,675

 

 

 

1,342,463

 

 

 

(817,788

)

Professional fees

 

 

1,045,492

 

 

 

2,149,568

 

 

 

(1,104,076

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

429,599

 

 

 

1,018,146

 

 

 

(588,547

)

Research and development

 

 

241,192

 

 

 

(3,403)

 

 

 

244,595

 

Loss on sale of notes receivable

 

 

985,085

 

 

 

 

 

 

985,085

 

Total costs and expenses

 

 

7,758,485

 

 

 

15,136,269

 

 

 

(7,377,784

)

Loss from operations

 

 

(6,638,606

)

 

 

(8,416,454

)

 

 

1,777,848

 

Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee

 

 

(1,701,140

)

 

 

(927,161

)

 

 

(773,979

)

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on deconsolidation

 

 

 

 

 

29,474,609

 

 

 

(29,474,609

)

Interest income

 

 

45,089

 

 

 

 

 

 

45,089

 

Interest expense

 

 

(2,225,386

)

 

 

(455,237

)

 

 

(2,224,931

)

Restructuring charge reversal

 

 

 

 

 

3,170

 

 

 

(3,170

)

Loss on sale/disposal of fixed assets, net

 

 

(98,043

)

 

 

 

 

 

(98,043

)

Other income (expense), net

 

 

(1,274

)

 

 

 

 

 

(1,274

)

Loss on sale of interest in unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

 

(600,000

)

 

 

600,000

 

Loss on debt extinguishment

 

 

(880,774

)

 

 

 

 

 

(880,774

)

Change in fair value of derivative instruments

 

 

3,671

 

 

 

90,531

 

 

 

(86,860

)

Total other income (expense), net

 

 

(3,156,717

)

 

 

28,513,073

 

 

 

(31,669,790

)

Net income (loss)

 

 

(11,496,463

)

 

 

19,169,458

 

 

 

(30,665,921

)

Preferred stock dividends

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

—   

 

Net income (loss) applicable to common stock before allocation to non-controlling interest

 

 

(11,579,215

)

 

 

19,086,706

 

 

 

(30,665,921

)

Net loss applicable to noncontrolling interest of consolidated subsidiary

 

 

13,117

 

 

 

187,806

 

 

 

(174,689

)

Net income (loss) applicable to Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. common stock

 

$

(11,566,098

)

 

$

19,274,512

 

 

$

(30,840,610

)

 



16



 


Comparison of the Year Ended December 31, 2014 to the Year Ended December 31, 2013


The Company reported net loss applicable to Ecosphere common stock on $11.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2014 (the “2014” Period) as compared to net income applicable to Ecosphere common stock of $19.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 (the "2013 Period"). The driver of the variance of $30.8 million is discussed below.


Revenues


The Company generated record revenues in 2011 and 2012 as its Ozonix® technology was deployed in the Energy sector through a partnership with a then-exclusive licensee, and through its majority owned subsidiary, FNES.  In early 2013, the Company began the final phase of its business model by selling a portion of its interest in FNES.  As a result of the Company's ownership in FNES declining below 50%, and the granting of managing control to FNF, the Company no longer includes the revenues of FNES in its consolidated financial statements. The Company's reported revenues for the 2013 Period of $6.7 million, which was primarily comprised of $1.5 million in field services from FNES business and $4.8 from the sale of two Ozonix® EF80 units to FNES. The Company reported revenues of $1.1 million for the 2014 Period. The Company has recently executed an agreement with a licensee in Brazil and FNES has executed an agreement with a licensee in Canada. The agreements with the two licensees may result in increased revenues in the near to mid-term, and the Company continues its efforts to secure licensing arrangements in all of its target industries for both, Ozonix® and Ecosphere's patented Ecos PowerCube®. During the 2014 Period, the Company sold two Ozonix® EF10M units one to BCE and one to FNES.


Costs and Expenses


Equipment Sales and Licensing Costs (exclusive of depreciation)


The equipment sales and licensing costs for the 2014 Period were $0.8 million in connection with the sale of an Ozonix® EF10M unit to FNES which was subsequently resold and the sale of one Ozonix® EF10M to BCE. For the 2013 Period, the Company had equipment sales and licensing costs of $4.0 million in connection with the sale of two Ozonix® EF80 units to FNES.


Field Services Costs (exclusive of depreciation)


Due to the deconsolidation of FNES in May 2013, there were no field services costs for the 2014 Period as compared to $0.7 million for the 2013 Period. All field services costs are related to the services business of FNES and since deconsolidation, the Company has not incurred field services costs. Included in these costs for the 2013 period are payroll related expenses for field personnel and parts and supplies used in support of the operation of Ozonix® water treatment systems and Ecos-Frac® related products.


Aftermarket Part Costs (exclusive of depreciation)


The costs associated with the sale of aftermarket parts for Ozonix® water treatment equipment were $56,486 for the 2014 Period as compared to $0.3 million for the 2013 Period.


Salaries and Employee Benefits


For the 2014 Period, salaries and employee benefits amounted to $3.2 million. The decrease in salaries and employee benefits of $2.3 million was primarily the result of a $0.5 million decrease in equity-based compensation and $1.6 million decrease in salaries, wages and related taxes and benefits and also the Company no longer reporting the costs and expenses of FNES on its Statements of Operations since it no longer consolidates FNES operations.


Professional Fees


For the 2014 Period, professional fees amounted to $1.0 million. The $1.1 million decrease in professional fees for the 2014 Period was driven by a $0.5 million decrease in consulting fees, $0.2 million decrease in corporate legal fees and $0.2 million decrease in legal fees relating to the Halliburton arbitration.



17



 


Loss on Sale of Notes Receivable


For the 2014 Period, the Company had a loss on sale of notes receivable of approximately $1.0 million in connection with the sale of the two Ozonix® EF80 notes receivable. In March 2014, Ecosphere sold the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in July 2013 in exchange for $1 million in cash. The buyer of the note is an FNES member and director. The Company also sold 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million in cash during the three months ended March 31, 2014. During the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company sold the remaining 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million. The buyer of 50% of the $0.6 million note receivable sold in June 2014 is an employee of the Company. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had no accounts receivable balance in connection with the notes payable for the Ozonix® EF80 units sold to FNES in July and November 2013.


Income (Loss) From Operations

 

Loss from operations 2014 Period was $6.6 million compared to loss of $8.4 million for the 2013 Period. See discussion above under "Revenues" and "Costs and Expenses" for further details.


Loss on Investment in Unconsolidated Investee


On May 24, 2013, the Company sold a 12% interest in FNES and transferred an additional 1.5% interest to a board member of FNES, reducing the Company’s ownership in FNES from 52.6% to 39.1%.  Since May 24, 2013, the Company accounts for its investment in FNES under the equity method.  Furthermore, in July 2013, the Company sold an additional 8% interest in FNES and transferred an additional 0.5% interest in FNES reducing the Company’s ownership in FNES from 39.1% to 30.6%. During the 2014 Period, the loss on investment in unconsolidated investee was $1.7 million as compared to a loss of $0.9 million for the 2013 Period.


Loss on Sale/Disposal of Fixed Assets, Net


In November 2014, the Company sold a mobile operations vehicle that had been part of its fixed assets since 2013. The net book value of such unit was written off and the Company recognized a loss of $0.1 million on the transaction.  


Interest Expense

 

Interest expense for the 2014 Period increased $2.2 million which was primarily due to the recent raise of $3.45 million through the sale of Convertible Notes and Warrants along with non-cash interest related charges.

 

Net Loss Applicable to Noncontrolling Interest of Consolidated Subsidiary


Net loss applicable to noncontrolling interest in our Ecosphere Mining, LLC consolidated majority-owned subsidiary was de minimis for the 2014 Period. Net loss applicable to noncontrolling interest for the 2013 Period was approximately $0.2 million in our then majority-owned consolidated subsidiary, FNES, prior to deconsolidation.

 

Net (Loss) Income Applicable to Common Stock of Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.

 

Net loss applicable to common stock of Ecosphere was $11.6 million for the 2014 Period as compared to a net income applicable to common stock of $19.3 million for the 2013 Period. Basic and diluted net loss per common share was $0.07 for the year ended December 31, 2014 as compared to a basic and diluted net income per common share was $0.12 for the year ended December 31, 2013. The weighted average number of shares outstanding was 164,294,045 and 163,054,587 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Fully diluted weighted average shares outstanding were 164,294,045 and 164,415,781 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.




18



 


LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES


A summary of our cash flow is as follows:


 

 

For the Year Ended

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

 

 

(4,550,454

)

 

 

(10,264,309

)

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

 

 

(102,988

)

 

 

7,390,106

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

3,625,591

 

 

 

1,468,943

 


Cash Flows from Operating Activities:


The Company’s net cash used in operating activities was $4.6 million during the 2014 Period compared to cash used in operating activities of $10.3 million during the 2013 Period, respectively.


2014 Period


Net cash used in operating activities was $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Cash used in operating activities for 2014 resulted primarily from the net loss applicable to Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. common stock of $11.5 million which was partially offset by (i) $3.2 million in non-cash expenses, (ii) $1.7 million in connection with the Company’s ownership interest share of FNES’ net loss, (iii) $1.0 million in connection with the loss on sale of the Company’s notes receivable for the Ozonix® EF80 units and (iv) $0.7 in stock-based compensation expense.


2013 Period


Net cash used in operating activities was $10.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Cash used in operating activities for 2013 resulted primarily from the operating loss of $8.4 million and $4.1 million for the build of Ozonix® equipment built in 2013, offset by non-cash expenses of approximately $1.5 million. The Company also paid down its accounts payable and accrued expenses by approximately $560,000 and financed the sale of two Ozonix® EF80s to FNES in the amount of approximately $4.1 million.


Cash Flows from Investing Activities:


The Company’s net cash used in investing activities was $0.1 million during the 2014 Period compared to net cash provided by investing activities was $7.4 million during the 2013 Period, respectively.


2014 Period


Net cash used in investing activities of $0.1 million was primarily from addition to property and equipment of $0.2 million and payment of patent costs of $0.1 million. The additions to property and equipment included computer equipment and software, a Company manufactured fixture to house the Company’s raw metals inventory and additions to a mobile operations vehicle originally purchased during the fourth quarter of 2013, which was later sold in the fourth quarter of 2014 resulting in proceeds to the Company of $160,000.


2013 Period


The Company’s net cash provided by investing activities of $7.4 million was the result of net proceeds from the sale of a 12% interest in May 2013 and an additional 8% in July 2013 in FNES totaling approximately $9.5 million net cash received, offset by $0.5 million of property and equipment purchases, $0.1 million of payment of patent costs, the repayment of $1.4 million advanced by FNES and $0.25 million of cash held by EES on the date of deconsolidation.


Cash Flows from Financing Activities:


The Company’s net cash provided by financing activities was $3.6 million in the 2014 Period compared to net cashed provided by financing activities of $1.5 million in the 2013 Period.




19



 


2014 Period


The Company’s net cash provided by financing activities of $3.6 million consisted primarily of proceeds from the sale of notes receivable of $2.2 million, which a portion was to a related party, as well as proceeds from the issuance of convertible notes payable and warrants of $1.7 million.


2013 Period


The Company’s net cash provided by financing activities consisted primarily of the repayment of $1.1 million in notes payable and other financing obligations, offset by $0.2 million of proceeds from the exercise of warrants. Also, the Company had proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable and warrants of approximately $2.4 million, net of debt issuance costs.


Liquidity


As of April 8, 2015, Ecosphere had cash on hand of approximately $0.1 million. Due to the nature of its technology licensing business model, Ecosphere presently does not have any regularly recurring revenue. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. To support its operations, the Company has a number of plans to monetize its intellectual property, which is described below.


Management believes that its current plans will provide sufficient liquidity for the next 12 months. Ecosphere plans to continue monetizing its intellectual property, and has identified the following liquidity sources that it expects to realize over the next three years:


·

Ecosphere is actively marketing exclusive and non-exclusive licensing opportunities for sale to strategic, well positioned partners that wish to bring our patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies to specific industries in their respective countries and regions of the world. Management expects this will result in similar realization of the value that has been realized by the development and sale of the global energy rights for its Ozonix® technology to FNES. Ecosphere owns 100% of the global rights to its patented Ozonix® technology for all non-energy related applications, including but not limited to agriculture, food and beverage, industrial, marine and municipal wastewater treatment, and any other industry in which water is treated with conventional liquid chemicals.  Ecosphere also owns 100% of the global right to its patented Ecos PowerCube® technology for all industries and applications worldwide.

·

Ecospheres business model revolves upon the licensing of its intellectual property to strategic customers and partners around the world that are well positioned and capitalized to bring Ecosphere’s patented technologies to their respective industries and countries. Additionally, Ecosphere has its own in-house design, engineering and manufacturing facilities to support customers and licensees that choose to not manufacture Ecosphere’s patented technologies themselves. In addition to the various licensing opportunities that are available for its patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies globally, the Companys 30.6% interest in FNES is also available for sale to strategic buyers.

·

In November 2014, Ecosphere launched its Ecos GrowCube, a state-of-the-art turnkey fully automated greenhouse that will use hydroponic growing techniques to maximize crop production using Ecospheres Ozonix® patents and thereby eliminating the use of toxic chemicals and pesticides without soil or fossil fuels.  

·

On April 14, 2015, the Company and SOG closed an initial $100,000 transaction as part of its plan to spin off SOG. The Company is seeking to raise an additional $400,000 on similar terms and conditions. See page 8 of this Report. Further, as part of the Company’s plan in conjunction with PubCo’s acquisition of control of SOG, SOG would raise a minimum $2 million dollars in gross proceeds. Although, only $250,000 will be paid directly to the Company for the sale of the initial Ecos GrowCube™, some of the Company’s current overhead will be assumed by SOG.


Management believes that the realization of any of the above events will provide sufficient liquidity for the foreseeable future. However, Ecosphere cannot provide any assurance that these plans will be successful. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.


In addition to needing capital to support its operations, Ecosphere has a $50,000 note payable due in April 2015 (proceeds of three month note received in January 2015) and $4,885,000 in convertible notes payable due over the next 12 months. This consists of $645,000 due in August 2015, $1,500,000 due in September 2015, $333,000 due in November 2015, $1,867,000 due in December 2015, $245,000 due in January 2016 and $295,000 due in March 2016.




20



 


Related Party Transactions


For information on related party transactions and their financial impact, see Note 22 to the consolidated financial statements contained herein.


Research and Development


Research and development costs were $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 and de minimis during the year ended December 31, 2013.


Recently Issues Accounting Pronouncements


For information on recently issued accounting pronouncements, see Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements contained herein.


CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This report includes forward-looking statements including opportunities for Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® in other markets, our anticipated sale of Convertible Notes, sales of intellectual property, sale of a minority interest in Ecosphere Mining, valuation of our subsidiaries, and our liquidity.


All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this report, including statements regarding our future financial position, liquidity, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.


Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. We caution you therefore against relying on any of these forward-looking statements. They are neither statements of historical fact nor guarantees or assurances of future performance. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are contained in the risk factors in this Report.


Any forward-looking statement made by us in this report speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.


RISK FACTORS


Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the following risk factors before deciding whether to invest in Ecosphere. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us, or that we currently deem immaterial, may also impair our business operations or our financial condition. If any of the events discussed in the risk factors below occur, our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In such case, the value and marketability of the common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.


Risk Factors Relating to Our Company


Our ability to continue as going concern is in doubt absent obtaining adequate new debt or equity financing and achieving sufficient sales levels.

 

We incurred a net loss of approximately $11.6 million in 2014. We anticipate that we will continue to lose money for the foreseeable future. Additionally, we have negative cash flows from operations. Our continued existence is dependent upon generating sufficient working capital and obtaining adequate new debt or equity financing and selling interests in our subsidiaries and intellectual property. Because of our continuing losses, we may have to continue to reduce our expenditures, without improvements in our cash flow from operations or new financing. Working capital limitations continue to impinge on our day-to-day operations, thus contributing to continued operating losses.



21



 


Because we do not generate positive cash flow from operations, we will be required to engage in a future financing.


We continue to seek working capital from a variety of sources including licensing of our intellectual property, sale and leasing of equipment using our patented technology and other intellectual property, and seeking additional financing primarily through the issuance of notes and warrants. We also are seeking to sell minority interests in our subsidiaries. Because licensing and the related sale of equipment usually have a long sales cycle, we expect to meet most of our short-term working capital through the sale of securities.


However, we cannot assure you that we will be successful in raising sufficient capital to run our operations.


Because of the difficulties which microcap companies have in raising capital, the lack of available credit for companies like us and our stock price, we may be hampered in our ability to raise the necessary working capital. Even if we do find a source of additional capital, we may not be able to negotiate terms and conditions for receiving the additional capital that are acceptable to us. Any future capital investments may dilute or otherwise materially and adversely affect the holdings or rights of our existing shareholders. In addition, new equity or debt securities issued by us to obtain financing could have rights, preferences and privileges senior to our common stock. We cannot give you any assurance that any additional financing will be available to us, or if available, will be on terms favorable to us. In such event, our ability to continue as a going concern is in doubt and we may not be able to remain in business.


Because we have substantial debt due beginning in August 2015, we must find a liquidity event or extend most or all of our debt in order to remain operational.


We have $4,885,000 of convertible debt coming due from August through March 2016. We do not have the present ability to pay this debt when it comes due. If we are unable to raise the funds from the sale and licensing of our intellectual property or extend the debt, we may not remain operational.


Although we believe we have the most proven and commercialized non chemical solution for treating industrial wastewaters including recycling frac flowback water and produced water stemming from the production of oil and natural gas wells, we face severe competition from a number of sources including service companies and various chemical companies which may adversely affect our future results of operations and financial condition.


In providing services to oil and gas drilling companies, FNES competes with oil and gas service companies and the various chemical companies. Service companies actually use the chemicals supplied by chemical companies in the drilling process. Oil and gas exploration companies rely heavily on the service companies for many aspects of the drilling and fracking process, and FNES has limited market share. These competitors are substantially larger than FNES and have substantially more resources. If FNES is not able to expand its service business, it may adversely affect our future results of operations and financial condition.


If the current price of natural gas or oil decreases, energy companies may reduce their drilling operations in shale deposits, which could adversely affect the attractiveness of our Ecosphere Ozonix® business in the oil and gas industry. 


The development of new horizontal drilling techniques and the discovery of unconventional oil and gas in new shale areas throughout the U.S. and world market have opened up an enormous opportunity for our Ozonix® technology to replace traditional chemicals used to kill bacteria in waters used for hydraulic fracturing. These fracturing operations rely on enormous supplies of clean water to be pumped downhole to break the rock that holds the oil and gas. Much of the water used in drilling oil and natural gas wells and the resulting water that flows back needs to be treated and creates an opportunity for our Ecosphere Ozonix® technology. Horizontal drilling in shale areas is very expensive; however, if prices for natural gas and oil are sufficiently high this expense can be justified.  Over the last several years’ natural gas and oil prices have been low which has adversely affected FNES’ business.




22



 


Because our Ozonix® products are designed to provide a solution which competes with existing methods; we are likely to face resistance to change, which could impede our ability to commercialize this business.


Our Ozonix® products are designed to provide a solution to replacing traditional chemicals that are used in the treatment of bacteria and scaling in industrial water processes. Specifically, we believe it can provide a cost effective and environmentally friendly solution in the oil and gas, mining, food and beverage, agriculture, marine and other industries that consume large amounts of water in their industrial processes. Currently, large and well-capitalized service companies provide traditional chemical equipment and services in these areas. These competitors have strong relationships with their customers’ personnel, and there is a natural reluctance for businesses to change to new technologies. This reluctance is increased when potential customers make significant capital investments in competing technologies. Because of these obstacles, we may face substantial barriers to commercializing our business.


If chemical companies engage in predatory pricing, our licensee may lose customers, which could materially and adversely affect us.


In the oil and gas business, energy companies traditionally have used liquid chemicals to treat the water used to fracture wells. The chemical companies represent a significant competitive factor. The chemical companies which supply chemicals to the service companies that offer their services to the oil and gas exploration companies may, in order to maintain their business relationship with their customers, drastically reduce their price and seek to undercut the pricing at which we can realistically charge for our products or services. While predatory pricing that is designed to drive us or any sub-licensee out of business may be illegal under the United States anti-trust and other laws, we may lose customers as a result of any future predatory pricing and be required to file lawsuits against any companies who engage in such improper tactics. Any such litigation may be very expensive which will further impact us and affect their financial condition. As a result, predatory pricing by chemical companies could materially and adversely affect us.


If we do not achieve broad market acceptance of our clean technology products, we may not be successful.


Although all of our products and services serve existing needs, our delivery of these products and services is unique and subject to broad market acceptance. As is typical of any new product or service, the demand for, and market acceptance of, these products and services are highly uncertain. We cannot assure you that any of our products and services will be commercialized on a widespread basis.


If we are unable to sell or license all or part of our Ecos PowerCube®, or if our efforts are delayed, our business and future results of operations could be adversely effected.


Our most recently patented technology is the Ecos PowerCube®, a self-contained micro-utility that uses solar power to provide electricity in remote, off-grid locations. Although we believe that the Ecos PowerCube® serves an existing need and can provide many benefits to the military and disaster relief efforts, there is no guarantee that it will receive market acceptance in the time frame as we expect it will. If the markets for our products and services fail to develop on a meaningful basis, if they develop more slowly than we anticipate or if our products and services fail to achieve sufficient market acceptance, our business and future results of operations could be adversely affected.


Our growth strategy reflected in our business plan may not be achievable or may not result in profitability.


Our growth strategy reflected in our business plan may not be able to be implemented at all or rapidly enough for us to achieve profitability. Our growth strategy is dependent on several factors, such as our ability to respond to the technological needs of our customers and others in the markets in which we compete and a degree of market acceptance of our products and services. We cannot assure you the potential customers we intend to target will purchase our products or services in the future or that if they do, our revenues and profit margins will be sufficient to achieve profitability.


Because our operating results have and may continue to fluctuate dramatically, particularly from quarter to quarter, investors should not rely upon our results in any given quarter as being part of a trend.


In the past, our quarterly operating results fluctuated and may continue to do so in the future as a result of a number of factors, including the following:


·

Our receipt of orders;

·

The availability of components from our suppliers for Ecosphere Ozonix® systems;

·

Operating results from our Ecosphere Ozonix® units and the announcement of future agreements for our Ecosphere Ozonix® units;



23



 


·

Our raising necessary working capital and any associated costs which will be charged as expenses to our future results of operations;

·

Our continuing to develop new technologies;

·

Pricing pressures;

·

General economic and political conditions;

·

Our ability, or our subsidiaries ability, to finance new verticals and develop commercial relationships for those verticals;

·

Our sales or licensing of our technologies.


As a result of these and other factors, we have experienced, and may continue to experience, fluctuations in revenues and operating results. As a consequence, it is possible that fluctuations in our future operating results may cause the price of our common stock to fall.


If we cannot manage our growth effectively, we may not become profitable.


Businesses which grow rapidly often have difficulty managing their growth. We have been growing rapidly. If this growth continues, we will need to expand our management by recruiting and employing experienced executives and key employees capable of providing the necessary support. We cannot assure you that our management will be able to manage our growth effectively or successfully. Our failure to meet these challenges could cause us to lose money, and your investment could be lost.


Because our business model is centered on sales and licensing our technologies to third parties, we may not be able to control key aspects of the timing of the commercialization of our business, which can adversely affect our future results of operations.


Our business model is to invent and develop environmentally responsible technologies and once we prove that they are commercially viable, we sell and license these patented technologies to financially stable companies to service their customers. Thus our ability to commercialize our future business will be dependent upon third parties, which we will not be in a position to control and, as a result, we could be adversely affected if the third parties do not perform on their agreements with us in the manner we anticipate.


If federal and state legislation and regulatory initiatives relating to horizontal drilling are passed, it could materially and adversely affect our results of operations.


FNES’ business relies upon supplying chemical-free solutions for cleaning the large amounts of water used in hydraulic fracturing applications. Objections have been raised by environmentalists, some land owners and some government officials including environmental authorities that there have been adverse side effects affecting the purity of the water supply as a result of the injection of chemicals and water in connection with horizontal drilling. Although we believe that FNES has a chemical-free solution which should result in increased business, we cannot assure you that legislation or rules will not be passed or action taken by environmental authorities that will preclude the use of horizontal drilling. At the state level, certain states and localities have implemented moratoriums and certain obligations on oil and gas companies using horizontal drilling. The adoption of any future federal, state or local laws or implementing regulations imposing reporting or permitting obligations on, or otherwise limiting, the horizontal drilling process could make it more difficult to perform, or even prohibit oil and gas companies from using horizontal drilling, to complete gas and oil wells. These additional costs to drillers could result in reduced oil and gas drilling. This would reduce our potential service revenue and adversely affect our ability to sell Ozonix® Units. If this were to occur more widely in the United States, the demand for FNES’ services may be eliminated or substantially reduced. If any such federal or state legislation on horizontal fracturing were passed, our revenues and results of operations could be adversely affected.


If we are unable to protect our patented technologies, our business could be harmed.


Our intellectual property including our patents is our key asset. In addition to our existing patents, we have filed United States patent applications covering certain technologies. Competitors may also be able to design around our patents and to compete effectively with us. The cost to prosecute infringements of our intellectual property or the cost to defend our products against patent infringement or other intellectual property litigation by others could be substantial. We cannot assure you that:


·

Pending and future patent applications will result in issued patents;

·

Patents we own or which are licensed by us will not be challenged by competitors;



24



 


·

The patents will be found to be valid or sufficiently broad to protect our technology or provide us with a competitive advantage; and

·

We will be successful in defending against future patent infringement claims asserted against our products.


Both the patent application process and the process of managing patent disputes can be time consuming and expensive. In addition, changes in U.S. patent laws could prevent or limit us from filing patent applications or patent claims to protect our products and/or technologies or limit the exclusivity periods that are available to patent holders. In September 2011, the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, or the Leahy-Smith Act, was recently signed into law and includes a number of significant changes to U.S. patent law, including the transition from a "first-to-invent" system to a "first-to-file" system and changes to the way issued patents are challenged. These changes may favor larger and more established companies that have more resources than we do to devote to patent application filing and prosecution. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office recently issued new Regulations effective March 16, 2013 to administer the Leahy-Smith Act. Accordingly, it is not clear what, if any, impact the Leahy-Smith Act will ultimately have on the cost of prosecuting our patent applications, our ability to obtain patents based on our discoveries and our ability to enforce or defend our issued patents. However, it is possible that in order to adequately protect our patents under the "first-to-file" system, we will have to allocate significant additional resources to the establishment and maintenance of a new patent application process designed to be more streamlined and competitive in the context of the new "first-to-file" system, which would divert valuable resources from other areas of our business. In addition to pursuing patents on our technology, we have taken steps to protect our intellectual property and proprietary technology by entering into confidentiality agreements and intellectual property assignment agreements with our employees, consultants, corporate partners and, when needed, our advisors. Such agreements may not be enforceable or may not provide meaningful protection for our trade secrets or other proprietary information in the event of unauthorized use or disclosure or other breaches of the agreements, and we may not be able to prevent such unauthorized disclosure. Monitoring unauthorized disclosure is difficult, and we do not know whether the steps we have taken to prevent such disclosure are, or will be, adequate.


If we are subject to intellectual property infringement claims, it could cause us to incur significant expenses and pay substantial damages.


Third parties may claim that our equipment or services infringe or violate their intellectual property rights. Any such claims could cause us to incur significant expenses and, if successfully asserted against us, could require that we pay substantial damages and prevent us from using licensed technology that may be fundamental to our business service delivery. Even if we were to prevail, any litigation regarding its intellectual property could be costly and time-consuming and divert the attention of our management and key personnel from our business operations. We may also be obligated to indemnify our business partners in any such litigation, which could further exhaust our resources. Furthermore, as a result of an intellectual property challenge, we may be prevented from providing some of our services unless we enter into royalty, license or other agreements. We may not be able to obtain such agreements at all or on terms acceptable to us, and as a result, we may be precluded from offering some of our equipment and services.


 Risks Related to Our Common Stock


Because we are subject to the “penny stock” rules, brokers cannot generally solicit the purchase of our common stock which adversely affects its liquidity and market price.


The SEC has adopted regulations which generally define “penny stock” to be an equity security that has a market price of less than $5.00 per share, subject to specific exemptions. The market price of our common stock on the Bulletin Board has been substantially less than $5.00 per share and therefore we are currently considered a “penny stock” according to SEC rules. This designation requires any broker-dealer selling these securities to disclose certain information concerning the transaction, obtain a written agreement from the purchaser and determine that the purchaser is reasonably suitable to purchase the securities.


These rules limit the ability of broker-dealers to solicit purchases of our common stock and therefore reduce the liquidity of the public market for our shares.


Due to factors beyond our control, our stock price may be volatile.


Any of the following factors could affect the market price of our common stock: 


·

Our announcements about completing any financings;

·

Discovery of our working capital;

·

Our announcements of and progress with commercialization in other business besides U.S. onshore oil and gas;



25



 


·

Our failure to generate increasing revenues through the sale of our intellectual property;

·

Short selling activities;

·

The loss of key personnel;

·

Our failure to achieve and maintain profitability;

·

Actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly results of operations;

·

Announcements by us or our competitors of significant contracts, new products, acquisitions, commercial relationships, joint ventures or capital commitments;

·

The loss of major customers or product or component suppliers;

·

The loss of significant business relationships;

·

Our failure to meet financial analysts performance expectations;

·

Changes in earnings estimates and recommendations by financial analysts; or

·

Changes in market valuations of similar companies.


In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, securities class action litigation has often been instituted. A securities class action suit against us could result in substantial costs and divert our management’s time and attention, which would otherwise be used to benefit our business.


We may issue preferred stock without the approval of our shareholders, which could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us and could depress our stock price.


Our Board may issue, without a vote of our shareholders, one or more additional series of preferred stock that have more than one vote per share. This could permit our Board to issue preferred stock to investors who support our management and give effective control of our business to our management. Additionally, issuance of preferred stock could block an acquisition resulting in both a drop in our stock price and a decline in interest of our common stock. This could make it more difficult for shareholders to sell their common stock. This could also cause the market price of our common stock shares to drop significantly, even if our business is performing well.


If the holders of our outstanding securities exercise or convert their securities into common stock, we will issue a substantial number of shares, which will materially dilute the voting power of our currently outstanding common stock.


As of April 8, 2015, we had approximately 165 million shares of our common stock outstanding, 47.2 million shares underlying warrants, 37.6 million shares underlying outstanding convertible notes and 54.4 million shares underlying stock options. If the holders of the securities described in this risk factor exercise or convert their securities, it will materially dilute the voting power of our outstanding common stock.


An investment in Ecosphere will be diluted in the future as a result of the issuance of additional securities, the exercise of options or warrants or the conversion of outstanding preferred stock.


In order to raise additional capital to fund our strategic plan, we may sell (and currently are engaged in the sale of) additional shares of common stock or securities convertible, exchangeable or exercisable into common stock from time to time, which could result in substantial dilution to investors. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in raising additional capital.


Because our management and employees do not solely by virtue of their ownership of our common stock control Ecosphere, it is possible that third parties could obtain control and change the direction of our business.


Our officers and directors own approximately 1.7 million shares of our common stock or approximately 1.1% of the shares actually outstanding. By including shares of common stock which are issuable upon exercise of outstanding vested options held by them, they beneficially own approximately 17 million shares or 9.5%. If all of our equity equivalents outstanding as of April 8, 2015 were exercised, we would have approximately 286 million shares outstanding (our Chief Executive Officer agreed to defer the exercise of 18.9 million which is not included). For that reason, a third party could obtain control of Ecosphere and change the direction of our business.




26



 


Because of our capital structure, we may be required to provide preferences to investors until such time as we are able to increase our authorized common stock which may adversely affect holders of our common stock.


As of April 9, 2015, we had issued 165 million shares of common stock and reserved 139.5 million for issuance upon exercise and conversion of our derivative securities which does not include 18.9 million shares underlying options that our Chief Executive Officer agreed to postpone exercise until such time as we increased our authorized capital. Our current authorized common stock is 300 million shares. Because of our need to raise capital, we may have to issue preferred stock with special rights and preferences which may adversely affect our common stockholders. Since our officers and directors only own 18.1% of our common stock, we may face obstacles in obtaining shareholder approval in increasing our authorized common stock.


Since we intend to retain any earnings for development of our business for the foreseeable future, you will likely not receive any dividends for the foreseeable future.


We have not and do not intend to pay any cash dividends in the foreseeable future, as we intend to retain any earnings for development and expansion of our business operations. As a result, you will not receive any dividends on your investment for an indefinite period of time.


Because almost all of our outstanding shares are freely tradable, sales of these shares could cause the market price of our common stock to drop significantly, even if our business is performing well.


As of March 2015, we had approximately 165 million shares of common stock outstanding of which our directors and executive officers own approximately 1.7 million shares which are subject to the limitations of Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Most of the remaining outstanding shares, including a substantial amount of shares issuable upon exercise of options, are and will be freely tradable.


In general, Rule 144 provides that any non-affiliate of Ecosphere, who has held restricted common stock for at least six months, is entitled to sell their restricted stock freely, provided that we stay current in our SEC filings. After one year, a non-affiliate may sell without any restrictions.


An affiliate of Ecosphere may sell after six months with the following restrictions:


(i)

we are current in our filings, 

(ii)

certain manner of sale provisions, and 

(iii)

filing of Form 144. 


Because almost all of our outstanding shares are freely tradable and a number of shares held by our affiliates may be freely sold (subject to Rule 144 limitation), sales of these shares could cause the market price of our common stock to drop significantly, even if our business is performing well.


Because we may not be able to attract the attention of major brokerage firms, it could have a material impact upon the price of our common stock.


It is not likely that securities analysts of major brokerage firms will provide research coverage for our common stock since the firm itself cannot recommend the purchase of our common stock under the penny stock rules referenced in an earlier risk factor. The absence of such coverage limits the likelihood that an active market will develop for our common stock. It may also make it more difficult for us to attract new investors at times when we require additional capital.


ITEM 7A.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.

 

Not applicable.


ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.

 

See pages beginning at F-1.

 

ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.

 

None.



27



 


ITEM 9A.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.


Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management carried out an evaluation, with the participation of our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”).  Based on their evaluation, our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2014.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act). Our management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of the end of the period covered by this report. In making this assessment, our management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsor Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in Internal Control-Integrated Framework as issued in 2013.  Based on that evaluation, our management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective based on that criteria.

 

Our internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of our Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of our financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with GAAP. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP, and that receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.


ITEM 9B.

OTHER INFORMATION.

 

None




28



 


PART III


ITEM 10.

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.


The following table sets forth certain information with respect to directors and executive officers of Ecosphere:


Name

 

Age

 

Positions with Ecosphere

Directors:

 

 

 

 

Dennis McGuire

 

64

 

Chairman of the Board

Dean Becker

 

60

 

Director

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

66

 

Director

Jimmac Lofton

 

57

 

Director

Charles Vinick

 

67

 

Director

David Brooks

 

44

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Officers:

 

 

 

 

Dennis McGuire

 

64

 

Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

66

 

Chief Operating Officer

David Brooks

 

44

 

Chief Financial Officer

Jacqueline McGuire

 

51

 

Senior Vice President of Administration and Secretary


Board of Directors


Dennis McGuire is our Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer. Mr. McGuire was appointed Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer on March 14, 2013. On January 18, 2011, Mr. McGuire was appointed Chief Technology Officer. From November 12, 2008 until August 1, 2009, Mr. McGuire was the Chief Technology Officer of Ecosphere until he became President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. McGuire was selected as a director because he is the founder of Ecosphere and is the inventor of all our intellectual property.


Dean Becker has served as a director since January 1, 2013. Since June 2009, Mr. Becker has been the Chief Executive Officer of ICAP Patent Brokerage and ICAP Ocean Tomo Auctions (collectively, “ICAP”), a leader in selling intellectual property. From January 2006 until June 2009, Mr. Becker was the Vice Chairman of Ocean Tomo, LLC, an industry-leading provider of an array of financial products and services related to intangible assets prior to its acquisition by ICAP. Mr. Becker is a frequent global speaker on intellectual property rights and the use of patents to include or exclude competition through licensing and enforcement of government issued rights. Mr. Becker was selected as a director because he is one of the world’s leading experts on monetizing intellectual property.


David Brooks was appointed interim Chief Financial Officer on February 5, 2013 and was elected as a director on December 13, 2013. Since November 2009, Mr. Brooks has been the Managing Shareholder of D. Brooks and Associates CPAs, P.A., which provides Chief Financial Officer and related services to businesses on a consulting basis. From August 2008 through October 2009, Mr. Brooks was an audit director and consultant for McGladrey & Pullen, LLP (now McGladrey LLP), a large assurance, tax and consulting services company. Mr. Brooks is a Certified Public Accountant in Florida. Mr. Brooks was selected as a director due to his financial and auditing expertise.


Michael Donn, Sr. was appointed a director in March 2005 and was appointed our Chief Operating Officer on March 27, 2008. Mr. Donn has held a number of senior executive positions with us since January 2000. As part of his duties, Mr. Donn set up and coordinated our relief effort in Waveland, Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Donn was the Project Manager for Ecosphere’s EPA Verification testing of its Water Filtration System. From November 2006 until January 29, 2010, Mr. Donn was a director of GelTech Solutions, Inc. From 1994 to 2000, he served as President of the Miami-Dade County Fire Fighters Association, a 1,700-member employee association for which he previously served as President, Vice President and Treasurer beginning in 1982. His responsibilities included negotiating, lobbying at the local, state and national levels and heading the business operations for the Association. He was also Chairman of the Insurance Trust. Following Hurricane Andrew, Mr. Donn coordinated the fire fighter relief efforts for the Miami-Dade fire fighters. He is the brother of our Senior Vice President of Administration, Jacqueline McGuire, and the brother-in-law of our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, Dennis McGuire. Mr. Donn was selected as a director because of his years of experience with all aspects of Ecosphere’s business and his administrative experience in directing the firefighters union. He has remained as a director as a representative of management.




29



 


Jimmac Lofton was appointed a director in March 2012. From March 2008 until December 2011, Mr. Lofton was the Director of Investor Relations and Business Development for Evergreen Energy Inc., a clean energy technology company. Since January 2012, Mr. Lofton has been a consultant with Stanhill Capital, a London-based Merchant Bank specializing in the natural resource sector. From May 2012 until December 2013, Mr. Lofton primarily provided services to New West Capital of Sedalia, Colorado focusing on the mining industry and water resources. Mr. Lofton served as an officer and employee of Ecosphere Mining, LLC from February 2014 through May 2014. Mr. Lofton was selected as a director for his experience in the clean energy industry and his knowledge of public company financial matters.


Charles Vinick has served as a director since August 2006. From January 18, 2011 until January 8, 2013, Mr. Vinick served as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Vinick was a consultant to Ecosphere since he resigned as Chief Executive Officer for one-year. Prior to becoming Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Vinick was Executive Chairman effective August 1, 2010. From December 22, 2009 until January 8, 2013, Mr. Vinick served as the Chairman of the Board. Mr. Vinick is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Aquantis, Inc., an ocean current energy development company. Until December 2010, Mr. Vinick served as Director of Business Development and Government Relations for Dehlsen Associates, a renewable energy technology development firm in Carpentaria, California. Mr. Vinick has more than 25 years of experience directing and managing non-profit organizations and programs. Mr. Vinick has previously held executive positions for over 20 years with organizations headed by Jacques or Jean-Michel Cousteau. Mr. Vinick was selected as a director due to his knowledge of, and commitment to, the environmental mission of Ecosphere, his understanding of the business applications for the Ecosphere technology, and his business experience and judgment. Mr. Vinick was also selected due to his 25 years of experience in global water quality and policy issues.


Executive Officers


See above for Messrs. McGuire’s, Brooks’ and Donn’s biography.


Jacqueline McGuire has been our Senior Vice President of Administration and Corporate Secretary since January 2001 and Secretary since our founding in 1998. She and her husband Dennis, our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, were two of our founders.


With the exception of Michael Donn, Sr., Dennis McGuire and Jacqueline McGuire as disclosed above, there are no family relationships between any of our directors and/or executive officers


Key Employee


Two of Dennis and Jacqueline McGuire’s children, Dennis and Corey McGuire, have been employed by Ecosphere since 2009 and 2010, respectively. Dennis McGuire, Jr. is Ecosphere’s Director of Manufacturing and Corey McGuire is Ecosphere’s Director of Marketing.


Corporate Governance


Board Responsibilities


The Board oversees, counsels, and directs management in the long-term interest of Ecosphere and its shareholders. The Board’s responsibilities include establishing broad corporate policies and reviewing the overall performance of Ecosphere. The Board is not, however, involved in the operating details on a day-to-day basis.


Board Committees and Charters


The Board and its Committees meet throughout the year and act by written consent from time-to-time as appropriate. The Board delegates various responsibilities and authority to different Board Committees. Committees regularly report on their activities and actions to the Board. The Board currently has and appoints the members of: the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee.




30



 


The following table identifies the independent and non-independent Board and Committee members:


Name

 

Independent

 

 

Audit

 

 

Compensation

 

Dennis McGuire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dean Becker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jimmac Lofton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chairman

 

Charles Vinick

 

 

 

 

ü

 

 

 

 

David Brooks

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Independence


Our Board has determined that none of our directors are independent in accordance with standards under the NYSE MKT rules.


Committees of the Board of Directors


Our Board has established two standing committees to assist it in discharging its responsibilities: the Audit Committee and the Compensation Committee.


Audit Committee


The Audit Committee’s primary role is to review our accounting policies and any issues which may arise in the course of the audit of our financial statements. The Audit Committee selects our independent registered public accounting firm, approves all audit and non-audit services, and reviews the independence of our independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee also reviews the audit and non-audit fees of the auditors. Our Audit Committee is also responsible for certain corporate governance and legal compliance matters. Our Audit Committee Charter is posted on our website at ir.stockpr.com/ecospheretech/board-committees. Our website is not incorporated herein.


The member of the Audit Committee is Charles Vinick. Our Board has determined that Mr. Vinick is qualified as an Audit Committee Financial Expert, as that term is defined by the rules of the SEC and in compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Mr. Vinick is not independent in accordance with the NYSE MKT independence standards for audit committees.


Compensation Committee


The function of the Compensation Committee is to review and recommend the compensation and benefits payable to our officers, review general policies relating to employee compensation and benefits and administer our various stock option plans, including the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, which we refer to as the “Plan.” Our Chief Executive Officer recommends executive compensation to the Compensation Committee and the Compensation Committee considers his recommendation prior to recommending compensation to our Board. The member of the Compensation Committee is Jimmac Lofton, who serves as chairman. The Compensation Committee has no authority with respect to setting compensation. However, its recommendations have always been followed.


Nominating Committee


Ecosphere does not have a Nominating Committee. Due to the size of our Board, each director participates in the consideration of director nominees. Our Board does not have a policy, or procedures to follow, with regard to the consideration of any director candidates recommended by our shareholders. We have never received any recommendations from shareholders and for that reason have not considered adopting any policy.


Board Diversity


While we do not have a formal policy on diversity, the Board considers as one of the factors the diversity of the composition of our Board and the skill set, background, reputation, type and length of business experience of our Board members as well as a particular nominee’s contributions to that mix. Although there are many other factors, the Board seeks to attract individuals with knowledge of water recycling, environmental solutions, and accounting and finance.




31



 


Board Leadership Structure


Ecosphere has chosen to combine the Chief Executive Officer and Board Chairman positions. We believe that this Board leadership structure is appropriate for Ecosphere at this time. Because we are a small company, it is more efficient to have the leadership of the Board in the same hands as the Chief Executive Officer of Ecosphere.


Role of Board in Risk Oversight


Our risk management function is overseen by our Board. Through our policies, our Code of Ethics and our Board committees’ review of financial and other risks, our management keeps our Board apprised of material risks and provides our directors access to all information necessary for them to understand and evaluate how these risks interrelate, how they affect Ecosphere, and how management addresses those risks. Mr. McGuire, our Chief Executive Officer, works closely together with the Board once material risks are identified on how to best address such risk. If the identified risk poses an actual or potential conflict with management, our independent directors may conduct the assessment. The Board focuses on key risks and interfaces with management on seeking solutions.


Code of Ethics


Our Board has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all of our employees, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Although not required, the Code of Ethics also applies to our Board. The Code provides written standards that we believe are reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and promote honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships, full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure and compliance with laws, rules and regulations, including insider trading, corporate opportunities and whistle-blowing or the prompt reporting of illegal or unethical behavior. We will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any person without charge, upon request. The request for a copy can be made in writing to Ecosphere Technologies, Inc., 3515 S.E. Lionel Terrace, Stuart, Florida 34997, Attention: Corporate Secretary.


Communication with our Board of Directors


Although we do not have a formal policy regarding communications with our Board, shareholders may communicate with the Board by writing to us at Ecosphere Technologies, Inc., 3515 S.E. Lionel Terrace, Stuart, Florida 34997, Attention: Corporate Secretary, or by facsimile (772) 781-4778. Shareholders who would like their submission directed to a member of the Board may so specify, and the communication will be forwarded, as appropriate.




32



 


ITEM 11.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.


Summary Compensation Table for 2014


The following information is related to the compensation paid, distributed or accrued by us for the last two fiscal years to our Chief Executive Officer (principal executive officer) and the two other most highly compensated executive officers serving at the end of the last fiscal year whose compensation exceeded $100,000, which we refer to as our “Named Executive Officers.”


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-Equity

 

All

 

 

Name and Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Option

 

Incentive Plan

 

Other

 

 

Position

 

Year

 

Salary

 

Bonus

 

Awards

 

Compensation

 

Compensation

 

Total

(a)

 

(b)

 

($)(c)(1)

 

($)(d)(2)

 

($)(f)(3)(4)

 

($)(g)(5)

 

($)(i)(6)

 

($)(j)

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dennis McGuire

 

2014

 

450,000

 

 

 

 

31,660

 

   481,660

Chief Executive Officer

 

2013

 

450,000

 

494,874

 

844,507

 

305,126

 

31,612

 

2,126,119

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

2014

 

175,000

 

 

201,263

 

 

  6,112

 

   382,375

Chief Operating Officer

 

2013

 

175,000

 

  33,000

 

 

 

  7,061

 

   215,061

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jacqueline McGuire

 

2014

 

112,200

 

 

145,058

 

 

  3,918

 

   261,176

Senior VP of Administration and Corporate Secretary

 

2013

 

112,200

 

  27,500

 

 

 

  4,763

 

   144,463

———————

(1)

This column represents salaries paid and accrued salaries that will be paid when the Company has the cash available. For Mr. McGuire, salary paid of $390,725 and accrued salary of $59,275.  For Mr. Donn, salary paid of $152,789 and accrued salary of $22,211. For Mrs. McGuire, salary paid of $97,959 and accrued salary of $14,241.

(2)

The amount in the bonus column represents cash bonuses.

(3)

The amounts in this column represent the fair value of the award as of the grant date as computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 and the SEC disclosure rules. These amounts represent awards that are paid in options to purchase shares of our common stock and do not reflect the actual amounts that may be realized by the Named Executive Officers. Please note that the total compensation listed for any officer or Director in a particular year does not necessarily represent what the executive may realize in cash earnings during that period. Equity compensation is variable and depends on both the stock price and the exercise price of options. In some cases the executive may receive no compensation where options are either "under water" or expire "under water". The amounts listed for options are estimates of the value based on a number of inputs to the BSM model and are purely for the basis of accounting for the expense of the equity. See Note 17 for valuation inputs.

(4)

See the section entitled Named Executive Officer Compensation Arrangements below for a description of these option grants.

(5)

Represents cash payments for commissions paid. Refer to “Named Executive Officer Compensation Arrangements” below for a description of these commissions.

(6)

For Mr. McGuire, the amounts in this column represent 401(K) contributions and life insurance premiums paid by Ecosphere for life insurance that is for the benefit of Mr. McGuire’s beneficiaries.  For Mr. Donn and Mrs. McGuire, the amounts in this column represent 401(K) contributions.  


Named Executive Officer Compensation Arrangements


Described below are the compensation packages our Board approved for our Named Executive Officers and management. The compensation arrangements were approved by our Board based upon the recommendation of our Compensation Committee, which conducted a thorough review over an extensive period of time.


Dennis McGuire


In December 2012, our Board approved a compensation arrangement for Mr. McGuire. In April 2013, Mr. McGuire signed an Employment Agreement and a Royalty Agreement. See the section titled “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Direct Independence” below for a description of the Royalty Agreement. Under the Employment Agreement, Mr. McGuire receives a base salary of $450,000 per year. He was also granted 6,300,000 five-year stock options, exercisable at $0.34 per share with one-third vesting upon his acceptance of the grant and the balance in equal increments on January 1, 2014 and 2015, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date.  As of January 1, 2015, all of these options had vested.




33



 


Michael Donn, Sr.


Prior to receiving a renewed agreement described below, Michael R. Donn, Sr., the Company’s Chief Operating Officer received an annual salary of $175,000.


On December 1, 2014, the Company entered into employment renewal agreement with Mr. Donn.  The two-year agreement provides for: (i) an annual salary of $192,500 effective January 1, 2015, (ii) 2,591,438 five-year stock options exercisable at $0.17 per share, with 25% vesting immediately and the remainder vesting semi-annually in four approximately equal increments over a two-year period, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date, and (iii) a discretionary performance-based annual bonus with terms to be set by the Company’s Compensation Committee.


Jacqueline McGuire


Prior to receiving a renewed agreement described below, Jacqueline McGuire, the Company’s Senior Vice President of Administration and Corporate Secretary, received an annual salary of $112,200.


On December 1, 2014, the Company entered into employment renewal agreement with Jacqueline McGuire, the Company’s Senior Vice President of Administration and Corporate Secretary.  The two-year agreement provides for: (i) an annual salary of $123,500 effective January 1, 2015, (ii) 1,867,746 five-year stock options exercisable at $0.17 per share, with 25% vesting immediately and the remainder vesting semi-annually in four approximately equal increments over a two-year period, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date, and (iii) a discretionary performance-based annual bonus with terms to be set by the Company’s Compensation Committee.


Key Employee


Dennis McGuire, Jr.


Dennis McGuire, Jr. is Ecosphere's Director of Manufacturing where he supervises 14 employees, supervised the successful manufacturing and completion of 43 Ozonix® units and the first Ecos PowerCube® and is currently manufacturing the first Ecos GrowCube™. Mr. McGuire’s responsibilities are to continually improve the manufacturing process and the Company’s fabrication capabilities. In 2014, Mr. McGuire, Jr. received compensation consisting of base salary of $141,923. This compensation arrangement was approved by Ecosphere’s Board of Directors.


Corey McGuire


Corey McGuire has been Ecosphere’s Director of Marketing since 2010. Mr. McGuire works closely with Senior Management and manages all of the Company’s marketing, advertising, branding, communication and public relation activities. In 2014, Mr. McGuire received compensation consisting of base salary of $96,039. This compensation arrangement was approved by Ecosphere’s Board of Directors.


Insurance Benefits


Ecosphere pays a portion of the premiums on a $5 million term life insurance policy owned by Mr. Dennis McGuire, Sr. with the beneficiaries selected by Mr. McGuire.


Discretionary Bonuses


Each of our executive officers is eligible for discretionary bonuses as determined by the Board.


Potential Payments upon Termination


Except for Mr. McGuire, our executive officers are not subject to any employment agreements which provide for any termination payments. Under his Employment Agreement, Mr. McGuire is entitled to severance payments if his employment is terminated upon death, disability, for Good Reason and upon a Change of Control of Ecosphere.


If Mr. McGuire’s employment is terminated as a result of death or disability, he (or his personal representative or guardian, if applicable) will be entitled to: (i) 12 months base salary, (ii) all stock options and restricted stock previously granted to him will become fully vested and (iii) if terminated due to disability, life insurance premiums will continue to be reimbursed.




34



 


If Mr. McGuire’s employment is terminated by him as a result of:


 

(i)

a material breach by Ecosphere of the Employment Agreement;

 

(ii)

the sale of all, or substantially all of the assets of Ecosphere or any of its affiliates or any division thereof which utilizes his inventions;

 

(iii)

the sale or license of any significant portion of his inventions without the prior written consent of Mr. McGuire;

 

(iv)

an event occurs which triggers the issuance of rights pursuant to the terms and conditions of any Rights Agreement adopted by Ecosphere;

 

(v)

a Change of Control (as described below);

 

(vi)

a business combination; or

 

(vii)

a separation from service for Good Reason as defined as set forth in Section 409 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, he will be entitled to: (i) receive the balance of his base salary remaining under the three-year term, (ii) all stock options and restricted stock previously granted to him will become fully vested and (iii) his health insurance and life insurance premiums will continue to be paid for the balance of the term of the Agreement.


Change of Control generally means (i) any person becomes the beneficial owner of 50% or more of the total voting power or fair market value of Ecosphere, (ii) within a 12 month period, any person becomes the beneficial owner of 30% or more of Ecosphere’s voting power, (iii) the incumbent directors cease to be a majority of the directors serving on the Board within any 12 month period, (iv) Ecosphere sells substantially all of its assets, or (v) a business combination transaction which results in Ecosphere’s current shareholders owning less than 50% of the surviving entity’s voting power.


Outstanding Equity Awards at 2014 Fiscal Year-End


Listed below is information with respect to unexercised options for each Named Executive Officer as of December 31, 2014:


 

 

Option Awards

 

 

Number of

 

Number of

 

 

 

 

 

 

Securities

 

Securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underlying

 

Underlying

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unexercised

 

Unexercised

 

Option

 

 

 

 

Options

 

Options

 

Exercise

 

Option

 

 

(#)

 

(#)

 

Price

 

Expiration

 

 

Exercisable

 

Unexercisable

 

($)

 

Date

Name (a)

 

(b)

 

(c)

 

(e)

 

(f)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dennis McGuire

 

6,300,000

 (1)

 

 

 

0.96

 

4/21/15

 

 

9,450,000

 (1)

 

 

 

0.46

 

1/3/16

 

 

4,200,000

 

 

2,100,000

 (2)

 

0.34

 

4/25/18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

525,000

 

 

 

 

0.46

 

12/23/15

 

 

472,500

 

 

 

 

0.46

 

12/23/15

 

 

157,500

 

 

 

 

0.42

 

1/2/2017

 

 

647,860

 

 

1,943,579

 (3)

 

0.17

 

11/26/19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jacqueline McGuire

 

157,500

 

 

 

 

0.46

 

12/23/15

 

 

157,500

 

 

 

 

0.46

 

12/23/15

 

 

157,500

 

 

 

 

0.42

 

1/2/17

 

 

466,937

 

 

1,400,809

 (3)

 

0.17

 

11/26/19

———————

(1)

Mr. McGuire has agreed not to exercise these options pending an increase in authorized capital.

 

 

(2)

These unvested options vested on January 1, 2015.

 

 

(3)

These unvested options vest in four equal increments on May 26, 2015, November 26, 2015, May 26, 2016 and November 26, 2016, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date.


The vesting of the unvested options described in the table above is subject to continued service or employment, as applicable, on the remaining vesting dates.



35



 


Director Compensation


We do not pay cash compensation to our Directors for service on our Board. Non-employee members of our Board receive automatic initial and annual grants of restricted stock and stock options. Please see “Automatic Board Grants” below for a further description. Directors are reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in attending meetings and carrying out duties as Board and committee members. In 2014, we paid no compensation and issued no equity grants to our directors for their service on the Board. Additionally, Mr. Vinick waived his 2014 automatic grant. Effect January 8, 2015, the Company granted Mr. Vinick 666,667 five-year options exercisable at $0.12 per share.  The options vest on January 8, 2016 as long as Mr. Vinick is a director on that date.


Automatic Board Grants


Effective 10 days from the date on which a non-employee director is first elected or appointed, whether elected by the shareholders of Ecosphere or appointed by the Board to fill a Board vacancy, he or she shall receive an automatic grant of restricted stock (or restricted stock units or RSUs if selected by the director with such delivery deferral as the director may select) and options with the number of shares, RSUs and options based upon Fair Market Value as defined in the Plan.


Initial Grants

 

Options

 

 

Restricted

Stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initial appointment as Chairman of the Board

 

$

75,000

 

 

$

75,000

 

Initial election or appointment of a non-employee director

 

$

40,000

 

 

$

40,000

 

Initial appointment as a Director Advisor

 

$

15,000

 

 

$

10,000

 


Annual Grants and Other Grants


On July 1st of each year, each non-employee director (or director advisor) receives an automatic grant of restricted stock and options with the number of shares and options based upon Fair Market Value (as defined in the Plan).


 

 

Options

 

 

Restricted

Stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chairman of the Board

 

$

40,000

 

 

$

40,000

 

Non-employee director

 

$

25,000

 

 

$

25,000

 

Director advisor

 

$

10,000

 

 

$

5,000

 

Initial appointment of and annual grant to a non-employee director serving as lead director or chairman of the following: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and other committees at the discretion of the Compensation Committee

 

$

15,000

 

 

$

15,000

 

Initial appointment of and annual grant to a non-employee director serving on the following: Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and other committees at the discretion of the Compensation Committee

 

$

10,000

 

 

$

10,000

 


In 2014, Mr. Charles Vinick was the only director eligible for an automatic grant, since Mr. Jimmac Lofton was acting as a consultant at that time.  Mr. Vinick chose not to accept his right to the automatic annual grant.   





36



 


ITEM 12.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.


The following table sets forth the number of shares of Ecosphere’s common stock beneficially owned as of March 31, 2015 by (i) those persons known by Ecosphere to be owners of more than 5% of our common stock, (ii) each director, (iii) each Named Executive Officer and (iv) all executive officers and directors as a group. Unless otherwise noted in the footnotes below, the address of the shareholder is c/o Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. 3515 S.E. Lionel Terrace, Stuart, FL 34997.


 

 

 

 

 

Amount

 

 

 

 

 

Name of

 

 

Beneficially

 

 

Percent of

Title of Class

 

Beneficial Owner

 

 

Owned (1)

 

 

Class (1)

 

   

 

  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Dennis and Jacqueline McGuire (2)

 

 

 

7,862,814

 

 

 

4.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Michael Donn, Sr. (3)

 

 

 

2,369,704

 

 

 

1.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

David Brooks (4)

 

 

 

0

 

 

 

0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Charles Vinick (5)

 

 

 

3,364,433

 

 

 

2.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Dean Becker (6)

 

 

 

2,362,500

 

 

 

1.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Jimmac Lofton (7)

 

 

 

1,002,635

 

 

 

*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

All directors and executive officers as a group (7 persons) 

 

 

 

16,962,086

 

 

 

9.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Ronald Heller (8)

 

 

 

23,324,998

 

 

 

12.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

David Nagelberg (9)

 

 

 

11,674,999

 

 

 

6.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

William O. Brisben (10)

 

 

 

44,614,406

 

 

 

21.9

%

———————

* Less than 1%


(1)

Applicable percentages are based on 165,168,894 shares outstanding on April 8, 2015, adjusted as required by rules of the SEC. Beneficial ownership is determined under the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Shares of common stock underlying options, warrants and convertible notes currently exercisable or convertible, or exercisable or convertible within 60 days are deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of the person holding such securities but are not deemed outstanding for computing the percentage of any other person. These shares are also included in the shareholders beneficial ownership. The table does not include unvested options. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, Ecosphere believes that each of the shareholders named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of common stock indicated as beneficially owned by them.

 

 

(2)

McGuire: Includes 6,300,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of vested options owned by Mr. McGuire and 939,437 shares issuable upon the exercise of vested options owned by Mrs. McGuire. Mr. McGuire disclaims beneficial ownership of the securities held solely in Mrs. McGuire’s name and Mrs. McGuire disclaims beneficial ownership of the securities held solely in Mr. McGuire’s name, and this disclosure shall not be deemed an admission that either is the beneficial owner of the other’s securities solely held in that person’s name for any purpose. Does not include 18,889,500 vested options that Mr. McGuire has agreed not to exercise until such time as the Company increases its authorized capital which will not take place within 60 days of the filing of this report.  Both Mr. and Mrs. McGuire are executive officers and Mr. McGuire is a director.

 

 

(3)

Donn: Mr. Donn is a director and an executive officer. Includes 1,802,860 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of vested options.

 

 

(4)

Brooks: Mr. Brooks is a director and executive officer.

 

 

(5)

Vinick: Mr. Vinick is a director and a former executive officer. Includes 2,771,675 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of vested options.



37



 





 

 

(6)

Becker: Mr. Becker is a director. Represents shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of vested options that are beneficially owned by an entity controlled by Mr. Becker.

 

 

(7)

Lofton: Mr. Lofton is a director. Includes: (i) 502,637 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of vested options, (ii) 166,666 shares underlying a convertible note and (iii) 333,332 shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants.

 

 

(8)

Heller: Mr. Ronald Heller has voting and dispositive control over the reported securities. Represents (i) 11,108,333 shares of common stock underlying convertible notes and (ii) 12,216,665 shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants. Address is: 700 East Palisades Avenue, Englewood, NJ 07632.

 

 

(9)

Nagelberg: Mr. David Nagelberg has voting and dispositive control over the reported securities. Represents (i) 5,558,333 shares of common stock underlying convertible notes and (ii) 6,116,666 shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants. Address is: 939 Coast Blvd., Unit 21 DE, La Jolla, CA 92037.

 

 

(10)

Brisben: Mr. William O. Brisben has voting and dispositive control over the reported securities.  Includes the following securities held by William O. Brisben: (i) 4,921,472 shares of common stock and (ii) 562,500 shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants. Also includes the following securities held by Brisben Water Solutions, LLC of which William O. Brisben is manager: (i) 26,086,956 shares issuable upon the exercise of warrants and (ii) 13,043,478 shares of common stock underlying convertible notes. Address is: 23 N. Beach Road, Jupiter Island, FL 33455.

 

ITEM 13.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.

 

On January 8, 2013, Ecosphere and Dean Becker, a director of Ecosphere, entered into a Business Consulting Services Agreement that can be terminated on 30 days’ notice. Under the Consulting Agreement, Mr. Becker’s role is to assist Ecosphere in monetizing its intellectual property through sales or licenses. In consideration for his services, Mr. Becker receives a fee of $250,000 per year. Additionally, Mr. Becker was granted 3,150,000 five-year stock options exercisable at $0.35 per share. As additional compensation, Mr. Becker will receive 2% of all revenues generated from the sale or license of Ecosphere’s intellectual property that was consummated as a result of introductions from Mr. Becker or negotiation assistance from him.


Effective January 8, 2013, Ecosphere and Charles Vinick, a director of Ecosphere and prior Chief Executive Officer, entered into a one-year Consulting Agreement. In connection with his Consulting Agreement, Mr. Vinick received fees of $275,000 and was reimbursed for health insurance costs. Additionally, Mr. Vinick was granted 1,050,000 five-year stock options exercisable at $0.38 per share. The options are now fully vested. This Consulting Agreement expired on December 31, 2013 and was not renewed.


Effective January 1, 2013, Ecosphere entered into a Royalty Agreement with Mr. Dennis McGuire. Under the Royalty Agreement, Mr. McGuire is entitled to receive royalties equal to 4% of Ecosphere’s revenues generated from the patents and inventions which were created by him (the “Inventions”) less any Base Salary paid to him. In addition to the royalties paid on revenues, the royalties will also be paid on any consideration Ecosphere receives or its shareholders receive from a merger or sale of our assets outside of the ordinary course of business relating to the Inventions plus consideration received by our shareholders from exchange offer or tender offer, as well as proceeds received by Ecosphere from outstanding debt conversions (for all new debt issued beginning January 1, 2013) and sales of Ecosphere’s equity securities. Royalty payments will be paid for the life of all Inventions regardless of whether Mr. McGuire remains an employee of Ecosphere. Under the Royalty Agreement, Ecosphere granted Mr. McGuire a first-priority perfected security interest in all of the Inventions and all revenues generated from the Inventions to secure payments owed to him under the Royalty Agreement. Provided that Ecosphere is not in default of the Royalty Agreement, Mr. McGuire will assign his rights to any technology invented by him during the term of his Employment Agreement. Prior to a change of control of Ecosphere, the Royalty Agreement requires Mr. McGuire to agree to reasonable extensions of time if Ecosphere suffers unforeseen cash flow problems. In 2013, Mr. McGuire received $305,126, respectively, in excess of his Base Salary in royalties and none in 2014.


Jacqueline McGuire and Michael Donn, Sr., are the wife and brother-in-law of Mr. Dennis McGuire, our Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. We also employ four other members of their families including two of Mr. and Mrs. McGuire's children including Dennis McGuire, Jr., Ecosphere’s Director of Manufacturing and Corey McGuire, Director of Marketing. See “Executive Compensation” for further information.





38



 


In September 2014, the Company entered into a $1,000,000 one-year bridge loan transaction with Brisben Water Solutions, LLC (“Brisben”). Under the Securities Purchase Agreement and related agreements with Brisben, Brisben acquired a $1,000,000 convertible promissory note from the Company which matures September 15, 2015 and bears interest at 10% per annum. The note is convertible into common stock of the Company at $0.115 per share. The note is secured by first liens on the Company’s Ecos PowerCube®, the Company’s patent related to the Ecos PowerCube®, and the right to a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Company’s interest in Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC (collectively, the “Collateral”) to satisfy the debt if Brisben elects to. In the event of any sale of the Collateral upon a default under the note, the Company would be entitled to any proceeds remaining after satisfaction of any amounts outstanding under the Note and related costs. Pursuant to the Agreement, Brisben also acquired 17,391,304 five-year warrants to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock at a price per share of $0.115, and the terms of approximately 536,000 warrants held by Brisben were reset to match the terms of the warrants. In February 2015, Brisben loaned the Company an additional $250,000 and Brisben was issued an amended note in the principal sum of $1,250,000 and a warrant to purchase an additional 4,347,826 shares of the Company’s common stock exercisable at $0.115 per share.   


In November 2014, the Company sold $500,000 of convertible notes to three accredited investors including Messrs. Ronald Heller and David Nagelberg (or entities they control), each of whom were or became 5% beneficial owners of the Company’s securities. The notes: (i) are convertible at $0.12 per share, (ii) mature on December 18, 2015, and (iii) pay 10% interest per annum on the earlier of (x) the maturity date or (y) conversion. Additionally, the Company issued to Messrs. Heller and Nagelberg a total of 8,333,333 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.12 per share. The notes are secured by a security interest in 10%, or 18,000,000, of the Company’s shares of common stock of Ecos GrowCube, Inc. In consideration for the investment the Company amended the terms of $1,500,000 of convertible notes (the “Amended Notes”) and 9,999,998 warrants (the “Amended Warrants”) purchased by Messrs. Heller and Nagelberg (or entities they control) in the Company’s December 2013 private placement offering. The Amended Notes and Amended Warrants have identical terms to the Notes and Warrants described in this paragraph above. The Amended Notes were previously convertible at $0.30 per share and the Amended Warrants were previously exercisable at $0.35 per share.


ITEM 14.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.


All of the services provided and fees charged by Salberg & Company, P.A., or Salberg, were approved by our Audit Committee. The following table shows the fees paid to Salberg, our principal accountant for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.


 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Audit Fees (1)

 

$

108,000

 

 

$

112,500

 

Audit Related Fees (2)

 

 

800

 

 

 

6,300

 

Tax Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Other Fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

108,800

 

 

$

118,800

 

———————

(1)

Audit fees – these fees relate to the audit of our annual financial statements and the review of our interim quarterly financial statements.

(2)

Audit related fees – these fees relate primarily to the auditors review of our registration statements.





39



 


PART IV

 

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.

 

(a) Documents filed as part of the report.

 

(1)

Financial Statements. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, which appears on page F-1 hereof. The financial statements listed in the accompanying Index to Consolidated Financial Statements are filed herewith in response to this Item.


(2)

Financial Statements Schedules. Financial statements of subsidiary not consolidated see index on page F-44. No other financial statement schedules are required.

 

(3)

Exhibits


Exhibit

 

 

 

Incorporated by Reference

 

Filed or

Furnished

No.

 

Exhibit Description

 

Form

 

Date

 

Number

 

Herewith

3.1

 

Certificate of Incorporation, as amended

 

10-K

 

5/12/14

 

3.1

 

 

3.2

 

Bylaws, as amended

 

10-K

 

5/12/14

 

3.2

 

 

10.1

 

Form of 8.5% Convertible Note (CIM)

 

10-Q

 

5/21/13

 

10.5

 

 

10.2

 

Form of Warrant (CIM)

 

10-Q

 

5/21/13

 

10.6

 

 

10.3

 

Dennis McGuire Employment Agreement*

 

S-1

 

1/21/14

 

10.35

 

 

10.4

 

Dennis McGuire Royalty Agreement *

 

S-1

 

1/21/14

 

10.36

 

 

10.5

 

Vinick Consulting Agreement*

 

S-1

 

1/21/14

 

10.37

 

 

10.6

 

Becker Consulting Agreement*

 

S-1

 

1/21/14

 

10.38

 

 

10.7

 

Employment Renewal Term Sheet - Donn

 

8-K

 

12/3/14

 

10.1

 

 

10.8

 

Employment Renewal Term Sheet – J. McGuire

 

8-K

 

12/3/14

 

10.2

 

 

10.9

 

Amended and Restated Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of February 10, 2015

 

8-K

 

2/13/15

 

10.1

 

 

10.10

 

Amended and Restated Convertible Promissory Note due September 12, 2015

 

8-K

 

2/13/15

 

10.2

 

 

10.11

 

Form of Warrant, dated as of February 10, 2015

 

8-K

 

2/13/15

 

10.3

 

 

10.12

 

Form of Amended Convertible Notes

 

8-K

 

12/4/14

 

10.1

 

 

10.13

 

Form of Amended Warrants

 

8-K

 

12/4/14

 

10.2

 

 

10.14

 

Security Agreement, dated as of September 12, 2014

 

8-K

 

9/18/14

 

10.4

 

 

10.15

 

Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of September 12, 2014

 

8-K

 

9/18/14

 

10.1

 

 

10.16

 

Form of Warrant, dated as of September 12, 2014

 

8-K

 

9/8/14

 

10.3

 

 

10.17

 

Second Amended and Restated EES LLC Agreement

 

10-Q

 

8/9/13

 

10.5

 

 

10.18

 

Fidelity Unit Purchase Agreement dated May 24, 2013

 

10-Q

 

8/9/13

 

10.3

 

 

10.19

 

Fidelity Unit Purchase Agreement dated July 26, 2013

 

S-1

 

1/21/14

 

10.14

 

 

10.20

 

Form of Convertible Note (2013 Offering)

 

10-K

 

3/17/14

 

10.38

 

 

10.21

 

Form of Warrant (2013 Offering)

 

10-K

 

3/17/14

 

10.39

 

 

10.22

 

Form of Registration Rights Agreement (2013 Offering)

 

10-K

 

3/17/14

 

10.40

 

 

10.23

 

Amended and Restated 2006 Equity Incentive Plan*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

21.1

 

List of Subsidiaries

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

23.1

 

Consent of Salberg & Co. PA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

31.1

 

Certification of Principal Executive Officer (302)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

31.2

 

Certification of Principal Financial Officer (302)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

32.1

 

Certification of Principal Executive and Principal Financial Officer (906)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Furnished

101.INS

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Instance Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

101.SCH

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

101.CAL

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

101.DEF

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed



40



 





101.LAB

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

101.PRE

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed

———————

*

Management compensatory agreement

**

Filed pursuant to a confidential treatment request for certain portions of this document.







41



 


SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

Date: April 15, 2015

By:

/s/ Dennis McGuire

 

 

 

Dennis McGuire

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

/s/ David Brooks

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

April 15, 2015

David Brooks

 

(Principal Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Dean Becker

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

Dean Becker

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Michael Donn, Sr.

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

Michael Donn, Sr.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Jimmac Lofton

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

Jimmac Lofton

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Dennis McGuire

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

Dennis McGuire

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Charles Vinick

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

Charles Vinick

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ David Brooks

 

Director

 

April 15, 2015

David Brooks

 

 

 

 


 

 



42



 


INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

F-2

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

 

F-3

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 

 

F-4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity

 

 

F-5

 

 

 

 

 

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

 

F-7

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

F-9

 

 

 



F-1



 


[esph_10k002.gif]



Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm



To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of:

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.


We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. and its Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2014.  These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.


We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall consolidated financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.


In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. and its Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.


The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company reported a net loss of $11,496,463 in 2014, and cash used in operating activities of $4,550,454 and $10,264,309 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At December 31, 2014, the Company had a working capital deficiency, and accumulated deficit of $2,861,314, and $109,463,965, respectively. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans as to these matters are also described in Note 1. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.


/s/ Salberg & Company, P.A.


SALBERG & COMPANY, P.A.

Boca Raton, Florida

April 15, 2015










2295 NW Corporate Blvd., Suite 240 • Boca Raton, FL 33431-7328

Phone: (561) 995-8270 • Toll Free: (866) CPA-8500 • Fax: (561) 995-1920

www.salbergco.com • info@salbergco.com

Member National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts • Registered with the PCAOB

Member CPAConnect with Affiliated Offices Worldwide • Member AICPA Center for Audit Quality



F-2



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Assets

  

                         

  

  

                         

  

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

31,800

 

 

$

1,059,651

 

Restricted cash

 

 

50,050

 

 

 

25,000

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

2,400

 

 

 

 

Current portion of accounts receivable-related party

 

 

52,740

 

 

 

1,210,445

 

Inventory

 

 

559,150

 

 

 

219,278

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

55,109

 

 

 

121,480

 

Total current assets

 

 

751,249

 

 

 

2,635,854

 

Investment in unconsolidated investee

 

 

12,668,298

 

 

 

14,369,439

 

Accounts receivable-related party, net of current portion

 

 

 

 

 

2,268,406

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

1,356,628

 

 

 

1,857,601

 

Slow moving inventory, net

 

 

71,401

 

 

 

 

Debt issuance costs, net

 

 

 

 

 

37,007

 

Patents, net

 

 

189,303

 

 

 

138,034

 

Deposits

 

 

14,840

 

 

 

14,840

 

Total assets

 

$

15,051,719

 

 

$

21,321,181

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities, Redeemable Convertible Cumulative Preferred Stock and Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

417,721

 

 

$

410,402

 

Accrued liabilities

 

 

981,012

 

 

 

843,893

 

Customer deposit

 

 

1,209

 

 

 

 

Current portion of convertible notes payable, net of discounts

 

 

2,038,116

 

 

 

271,176

 

Current portion of note payable

 

 

102,149

 

 

 

85,125

 

Warrant derivatives fair value

 

 

 

 

 

3,671

 

Current portion of financing obligations

 

 

56,215

 

 

 

163,746

 

Current portion of capital lease obligation

 

 

16,141

 

 

 

15,347

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

3,612,563

 

 

 

1,793,360

 

Convertible notes payable, net of discounts and current portion

 

 

123,526

 

 

 

510,984

 

Note payable, net of current portion

 

 

 

 

 

68,099

 

Financing obligations, net of current portion

 

 

63,594

 

 

 

108,265

 

Capital lease obligation, net of current portion

 

 

25,788

 

 

 

41,929

 

Total liabilities

 

 

3,825,471

 

 

 

2,522,637

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Redeemable convertible cumulative preferred stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Series A - 11 shares authorized; 6 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013; $25,000 per share redemption amount plus dividends in arrears

 

 

1,225,994

 

 

 

1,203,494

 

Series B - 484 shares authorized; 241 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively; $2,500 per share redemption amount plus dividends in arrears

 

 

2,577,285

 

 

 

2,517,033

 

Total redeemable convertible cumulative preferred stock

 

 

3,803,279

 

 

 

3,720,527

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 20)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. stockholders' equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock, $0.01 par value; 300,000,000 shares authorized; 164,734,112 and 164,033,139 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively

 

 

1,647,341

 

 

 

1,640,330

 

Common stock issuable, $0.01 par value; 0 and 105,263 issuable at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively

 

 

 

 

 

1,053

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

 

115,252,710

 

 

 

111,417,253

 

Accumulated deficit

 

 

(109,463,965

)

 

 

(97,980,619

)

Total Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. stockholders' equity

 

 

7,436,086

 

 

 

15,078,017

 

Noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiary

 

 

(13,117

)

 

 

 

Total equity

 

 

7,422,969

 

 

 

15,078,017

 

Total liabilities, redeemable convertible cumulative preferred stock and equity

 

$

15,051,719

 

 

$

21,321,181

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



F-3



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS


 

 

 

 

For the years ended

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equipment sales and licensing

 

 

 

$

530,550

 

 

$

 

Equipment sales and licensing, related party

 

 

 

 

524,525

 

 

 

4,759,478

 

Field services

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,547,786

 

Aftermarket part sales

 

 

 

 

24,549

 

 

 

287,724

 

Aftermarket part sales, related party

 

 

 

 

40,255

 

 

 

124,827

 

Total revenues

 

 

 

 

1,119,879

 

 

 

6,719,815

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Costs and expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equipment sales and licensing costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

 

 

813,005

 

 

 

4,059,136

 

Field services costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

721,214

 

Aftermarket part costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

 

 

56,486

 

 

 

304,758

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

 

 

 

5,474,310

 

 

 

9,033,015

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

 

429,599

 

 

 

1,018,146

 

Loss on sale of notes receivable

 

 

 

 

985,085

 

 

 

 

Total costs and expenses

 

 

 

 

7,758,485

 

 

 

15,136,269

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss from operations

 

 

 

 

(6,638,606

)

 

 

(8,416,454

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

(1,701,140

)

 

 

(927,161

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on deconsolidation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

29,474,609

 

Interest income

 

 

 

 

45,089

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

 

 

 

(2,225,386

)

 

 

(455,237

)

Gain on change in fair value of derivative instruments

 

 

 

 

3,671

 

 

 

90,531

 

Loss on debt extinguishment

 

 

 

 

(880,774

)

 

 

 

Loss on sale of interest in unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(600,000

)

Restructuring charge reversal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,170

 

Loss on sale/disposal of fixed assets, net

 

 

 

 

(98,043

)

 

 

 

Other, net

 

 

 

 

(1,274

)

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income, net

 

 

 

 

(3,156,717

)

 

 

28,513,073

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

 

 

 

(11,496,463

)

 

 

19,169,458

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock dividends

 

 

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income applicable to common stock before allocation to non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

(11,579,215

)

 

 

19,086,706

 

Less: net loss applicable to non-controlling interest in consolidated subsidiary

 

 

 

 

13,117

 

 

 

187,806

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income applicable to Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. common stock

 

 

 

$

(11,566,098

)

 

$

19,274,512

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income per common share applicable to common stock

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

 

$

(0.07

)

 

$

0.12

 

Diluted

 

 

 

$

(0.07

)

 

$

0.12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average number of common shares outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

 

 

164,294,045

 

 

 

163,054,587

 

Diluted

 

 

 

 

164,294,045

 

 

 

164,415,781

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



F-4



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the Years Ended December 31, 2014 and 2013



 

 

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issued

 

 

Issuable

 

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

Non-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Paid-In

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

controlling

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Par Value

 

 

Shares

 

 

Par Value

 

 

Capital

 

 

Deficit

 

 

Interest

 

 

Total

 

Balance at December 31, 2012

  

 

160,060,088

  

  

$

1,600,599

  

  

 

1,138,724

  

  

$

11,388

  

  

$

107,697,370

   

  

$

(117,337,883

)

 

$

9,423,060

 

 

$

1,394,534

 

Common stock issued for options and warrants exercised for cash

 

 

1,065,314

 

 

 

10,653

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

160,035

 

 

 

  

  

 

  

  

 

170,688

 

Common stock issued for cashless option and warrant exercises

 

 

1,570,435

 

 

 

15,704

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(15,704

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock issued for conversion of convertible notes

 

 

98,425

 

 

 

984

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

36,516

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

37,500

 

Common stock issued/issuable for restricted stock vesting

 

 

84,000

 

 

 

840

 

 

 

105,263

 

 

 

1,053

 

 

 

58,107

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

60,000

 

Issuance of issuable shares

 

 

1,138,724

 

 

 

11,388

 

 

 

(1,138,724

)

 

 

(11,388

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock options granted and vested to employees, directors and advisors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,203,785

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,203,785

 

Common stock issued for interest payment on convertible note

 

 

16,153

 

 

 

162

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5,838

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6,000

 

Reclassification of derivative upon warrant exercises

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

102,807

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

102,807

 

Warrants issued as finder fees

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21,211

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21,211

 

Note discount from warrant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,203,509

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2,203,509

 

Stock options modification

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26,532

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26,532

 

Preferred stock dividends

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(82,752

)

Sale of controlling interest in subsidiary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(9,235,254

)

 

 

(9,235,254

)

Net income (loss), 2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,357,264

 

 

 

(187,806

)

 

 

19,169,458

 

Balance at December 31, 2013

 

 

164,033,139

 

 

$

1,640,330

 

 

 

105,263

 

 

$

1,053

 

 

$

111,417,253

 

 

$

(97,980,619

)

 

$

 

 

$

15,078,017

 


 (Continued)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.




F-5



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the Years Ended December 31, 2014 and 2013


 

 

Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issued

 

 

Issuable

 

 

Additional

 

 

 

 

 

Non-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Common Stock

 

 

Paid-In

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

controlling

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Par Value

 

 

Shares

 

 

Par Value

 

 

Capital

 

 

Deficit

 

 

Interest

 

 

Total

 

Balance at December 31, 2013

  

 

164,033,139

  

  

$

1,640,330

  

  

 

105,263

  

  

$

1,053

  

  

$

111,417,253

   

  

$

(97,980,619

)

 

$

 

 

$

15,078,017

 

Common stock issued for cashless option and warrant exercises

 

 

8,753

 

 

 

88

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(88

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock issued for conversion of convertible notes

 

 

586,957

 

 

 

5,870

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

61,630

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

67,500

 

Issuance of issuable shares

 

 

105,263

 

 

 

1,053

 

 

 

(105,263

)

 

 

(1,053

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock options granted and vested to employees, directors and advisors

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

683,650

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

683,650

 

Note discount from convertible debt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,771,643

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,771,643

 

Note discount from convertible debt modifications

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,217,933

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,217,933

 

Preferred stock dividends

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(82,752

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(82,752

)

Extension of options and warrants in exchange for cash

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175,061

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

175,061

 

Warrant modifications

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8,380

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8,380

 

Net income (loss), 2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(11,483,346

)

 

 

(13,117

)

 

 

(11,496,463

)

Balance at December 31, 2014

 

 

164,734,112

 

 

$

1,647,341

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

$

115,252,710

 

 

$

(109,463,965

)

 

$

(13,117

)

 

 

$7,422,969

 



The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



F-6



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


 

 

 

 

For the years ended

December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Operating Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Net income (loss)

 

 

 

$

(11,496,463

)

 

$

19,169,458

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gain on deconsolidation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(29,474,609

)

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

 

 

429,599

 

 

 

1,018,146

 

Amortization of debt issue costs

 

 

 

 

24,279

 

 

 

27,737

 

Amortization of discount on notes payable

 

 

 

 

1,851,275

 

 

 

300,043

 

Modification of warrants and options

 

 

 

 

123,441

 

 

 

 

Loss on debt extinguishment

 

 

 

 

880,774

 

 

 

 

Stock-based compensation expense

 

 

 

 

683,650

 

 

 

1,290,317

 

Loss on sale of fixed assets, net

 

 

 

 

98,043

 

 

 

 

Gain from change in fair value of warrant derivative liability

 

 

 

 

(3,671

)

 

 

(90,531

)

Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

1,701,140

 

 

 

927,161

 

Loss on sale of notes receivable

 

 

 

 

985,085

 

 

 

 

Loss on sale of interest in unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

600,000

 

Write-down of inventory

 

 

 

 

71,401

 

 

 

158,650

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable

 

 

 

 

267,349

 

 

 

689,865

 

Increase in accounts receivable – related party

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(3,478,851

)

Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

 

 

170,670

 

 

 

(27,329

)

Increase in inventory

 

 

 

 

(482,674

)

 

 

(785,691

)

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable

 

 

 

 

7,318

 

 

 

(300,137

)

Increase (decrease) in accrued liabilities

 

 

 

 

137,121

 

 

 

(260,594

)

Decrease in restructuring reserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(5,909

)

Increase (decrease) in customer deposits

 

 

 

 

1,209

 

 

 

(22,035

)

Net cash used in operating activities

 

 

 

 

(4,550,454

)

 

 

(10,264,309

)

Investing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net proceeds from sale of interest in subsidiary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9,500,000

 

Repayment of amounts due to unconsolidated investee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,385,139

)

Cash held by deconsolidated subsidiary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(247,636

)

Proceeds from sale of fixed asset

 

 

 

 

161,942

 

 

 

 

Transfers (to) from restricted cash

 

 

 

 

(25,050

)

 

 

35,168

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

 

 

 

(178,721

)

 

 

(446,724

)

Payment of patent costs

 

 

 

 

(61,159

)

 

 

(65,563

)

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

 

 

 

 

(102,988

)

 

 

7,390,106

 

Financing Activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes payable and warrants, net of debt issuance costs

 

 

 

 

1,745,000

 

 

 

2,406,467

 

Proceeds from warrant and option exercises

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

170,688

 

Proceeds from warrant modification

 

 

 

 

60,000

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of notes receivable

 

 

 

 

2,171,277

 

 

 

 

Cash payment for note modification

 

 

 

 

(27,763

)

 

 

 

Repayments of notes payable and insurance financing

 

 

 

 

(104,299

)

 

 

(981,075

)

Repayments of notes payable to related parties

 

 

 

 

(51,075

)

 

 

 

Repayments of vehicle and equipment financing

 

 

 

 

(152,202

)

 

 

(112,544

)

Principal payments on capital leases

 

 

 

 

(15,347

)

 

 

(14,593

)

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

 

 

 

3,625,591

 

 

 

1,468,943

 

Net decrease in cash

 

 

 

 

(1,027,851

)

 

 

(1,405,260

)

Cash at beginning of year

 

 

 

 

1,059,651

 

 

 

2,464,911

 

Cash at end of year

 

 

 

$

31,800

 

 

$

1,059,651

 


 (Continued)

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.



F-7



 


ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)

 

 

 

For the years ended

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Supplemental Cash Flow Information:

  

                         

  

  

                         

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid for interest

 

$

299,083

 

 

$

311,042

 

Cash paid for taxes

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accrued preferred stock dividends

 

$

82,752

 

 

$

82,752

 

Conversion of convertible notes to common stock

 

$

67,500

 

 

$

37,500

 

Reduction of derivative liability for warrant derivative instruments from warrant exercises and modifications

 

$

 

 

$

102,807

 

Warrants issued as debt issue cost

 

$

 

 

$

21,211

 

Modification of convertible debt and issuance of common stock warrants for extension of maturity dates

 

$

 

 

$

111,738

 

Common stock issued as settlement of note and accrued interest

 

$

 

 

$

6,000

 

Cashless exercise of options and warrants

 

$

88

 

 

$

14,957

 

Beneficial conversion feature on convertible debt and convertible debt modifications charged to additional paid in capital

 

$

2,989,576

 

 

$

2,091,771

 

Extension of term of stock options in settlement of accrued interest on convertible debt

 

$

 

 

$

26,532

 

Vehicle purchased through third party financing arrangement

 

$

 

 

$

56,802

 

Insurance premium finance contract recorded as prepaid asset

 

$

104,299

 

 

$

168,859

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.




F-8



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION


Description of the Business


Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. (“Ecosphere,” “ETI” or the “Company”) is a technology development and intellectual property licensing company that develops environmental solutions for global water, energy and industrial markets.  We help industry increase production, reduce costs, and protect the environment through a portfolio of more than 35 patented and patent-pending technologies:  Technologies like Ozonix®, the Ecos PowerCube® and our recently announced Ecos GrowCube™, which are available for exclusive and nonexclusive licensing opportunities across a wide range of industries and applications throughout the world.


The Company is a leader in emerging Advanced Oxidation Processes (“AOP”) and has an extensive portfolio of intellectual property that includes eleven (11) approved United States patents, with seven (7) issued for Ozonix® and numerous patents pending for its Ozonix® and other technologies. Ozonix® is a revolutionary AOP that offers customers a chemical-free alternative to high-volume water treatment, disinfection and recycling for a wide variety of industries and applications, including but not limited to agriculture, energy, food and beverage, industrial, marine, mining and municipal wastewater treatment.


Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® technology has been commercially proven in the oil and gas hydraulic fracturing industry and is currently being used by Fidelity National Environmental Solutions (“FNES”), formerly Ecosphere Energy Services (“EES”), and its sub-licensing partners around the United States and Canada. FNES has an exclusive field-of-use license for Ecosphere's patented Ozonix® technology for global energy applications including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and natural gas exploration and production, power generation, refineries and coal. 


In addition to its current operations, FNES has two sub-licensing partners, which include Hydrozonix, LLC in the United States and Hydrosphere Energy Solutions, LLC in the territory of Alberta and North East British Columbia, Canada. Since 2009, FNES and its sub-licensing partners have enabled oil and gas customers to treat, recycle and reuse over 5 billion gallons of water for more than 1,200 oil and natural gas wells around the United States and Canada in all major shale plays including but not limited to Fayetteville, Haynesville, Woodford, Eagle Ford, Bakken, Marcellus and Permian Basin; protecting $5 billion worth of well assets and generating over $70 million in equipment sales, service and technology licensing revenue.


Ecosphere and FNES have received numerous awards and accolades for its patented and proven Ozonix® water treatment solutions for the energy sector, including but not limited to:


·

2014 Popular Science Magazine Best New Product of 2014 Green categorys for the Ecos PowerCube®;

·

2013 Oil and Gas Awards - Water Management Company of the Year Award, Midcontinent Region;

·

2013 Bloomberg New Energy Finance Awards - New Energy Pioneer;

·

2013 IHS CERAWeek - Energy Innovation Pioneer Award;

·

2013 American Technology Awards - "Clean Tech/Green Tech" Winner;

·

2013 World Technology Awards - Corporate "Environment" Category Winner;

·

2013 Governors Innovators in Business Awards by Enterprise Florida Rising Star;

·

2012 Frost & Sullivan North American Product Leadership Award in Disinfection Equipment for Shale Oil and Gas Wastewater Treatment; and

·

2010, 2011, 2012 Artemis "Top 50 Water Technologies" Winner.


Outside of the energy industry, Ecosphere has recently signed an exclusive technology licensing and equipment purchase agreement with Brasil Clean Energy (“BCE”), a Brazilian environmental services company, to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology across the Food and Beverage industry in Brazil. In September 2014, the Company completed manufacturing, testing and delivery of BCE’s first piece of equipment, an Ozonix® EF10M mobile water treatment system capable of treating approximately 420 gallons-per-minute in a 10x12 footprint.




F-9



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



In addition to Ozonix®, Ecosphere has recently received a patent from the United States Patent Office for the world’s largest, mobile solar-powered generator. The Ecos PowerCube® is a portable, self-contained micro-utility that uses the power of the sun to provide electricity in the most remote, off-grid locations. Designed to meet the growing demand for off-grid energy, with a unique, patented array of stacked solar panels, the Ecos PowerCube® maximizes the total amount of solar power generation possible in 10', 20' and 40' ISO shipping container footprints - providing users with approximately 400% more solar power in a given footprint. With solar power generation capabilities up to 15 kW, the Ecos PowerCube® can be transported by land, air, or sea and is ideally suited to support off-grid agricultural, military, emergency/disaster relief, humanitarian and wireless communication efforts for remote applications around the world.


In November 2014, Ecosphere’s patented Ecos PowerCube® technology was recognized as a winner in the Green category of the 2014 Best of What’s New Awards from Popular Science. Each year, Popular Science reviews thousands of new innovative products and chooses the top 100 winners across 12 categories for inclusion in the annual Best of What’s New issue – the best-read issue of the year. To win, a product or technology must represent a significant step forward in its category.  Ecosphere’s patented Ecos PowerCube® solar panel array technology was featured in this December’s special issue, on newsstands as of the date this Report is filed.


In November 2014, the Company formed a new subsidiary, Sea of Green Systems, Inc. to deploy its new patented technology Ecos GrowCube™. The Ecos GrowCube™ is a turnkey, fully automated hydroponic greenhouse that is Made in the USA and fabricated out of aircraft-grade aluminum. An Ecos GrowCube™ utilizes hydroponic growing techniques in order to maximize the amount of crop production possible in a given footprint and eliminates the need for soil, fossil fuels, pesticides and toxic chemicals.


In June 2014, the Company engaged ICAP Patent Brokerage to monetize its patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technology portfolios and to serve as its exclusive licensing agent. ICAP PB is now the Company’s exclusive broker, tasked with successfully licensing both technologies across a wide variety of industries and applications on a global basis. ICAP Patent Brokerage’s veteran brokers have more than 35 years of experience in monetizing and leveraging intellectual property assets, drawing on an extensive knowledge of the marketplace across multiple sectors throughout the United States, Asia, and Europe. ICAP brings credibility, stability and liquidity to the IP marketplace and is quickly becoming the intellectual property brokerage of choice for IP assets in both the primary and secondary markets.  With the growing pressure on global water resources and the need for clean, renewable energy, we expect Ecosphere’s patented technology portfolio to continue to expand. The Chief Executive Officer of ICAP is a director of and consultant to the Company.


In addition to Ozonix®, Ecos PowerCube® and Ecos GrowCube™, the Company has developed an extensive portfolio of intellectual property that can be purchased and licensed for use in large-scale and sustainable applications across industries, nations and ecosystems. Companies that license Ecosphere’s patented technologies are able to improve their financial metrics while also reducing their ecological and environmental footprints. The Company is currently focused on licensing its patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies, although its other technologies and patents remain a viable part of Ecosphere’s long-term technology licensing strategy.


Basis of Presentation


The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) in the U.S. as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) and with the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) for financial information.


On June 5, 2013, the Company issued a 5% stock dividend (the “dividend”) to its common stockholders. All common stockholders that owned the Company’s common stock as of the close of trading on June 14, 2013, were entitled to receive the dividend. Each qualifying stockholder received 5 shares for each 100 shares owned. Share and per share information for all periods presented have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the 5% stock dividend.




F-10



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Going Concern


As of April 8, 2015, Ecosphere had cash on hand of approximately $0.1 million. Due to the nature of its technology licensing business model, Ecosphere presently does not have any regularly recurring revenue. The Company reported a net loss of $11,496,463 in 2014, and cash used in operating activities of $4,550,454 and $10,264,309 in 2014 and 2013, respectively.  At December 31, 2014, the Company had a working capital deficiency, and accumulated deficit of $2,861,314, and $109,463,965 respectively. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. To support its operations, the Company has a number of plans to monetize its intellectual property, which is described below.


Management believes that its current plans will provide sufficient liquidity for the next 12 months. Ecosphere plans to continue monetizing its intellectual property, and has identified the following liquidity sources that it expects to realize over the next three years:


·

Ecosphere is actively marketing exclusive and non-exclusive licensing opportunities for sale to strategic, well positioned partners that wish to bring our patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies to specific industries in their respective countries and regions of the world. Management expects this will result in similar realization of the value that has been realized by the development and sale of the global energy rights for its Ozonix® technology to FNES. Ecosphere owns 100% of the global rights to its patented Ozonix® technology for all non-energy related applications, including but not limited to agriculture, food and beverage, industrial, marine and municipal wastewater treatment, and any other industry in which water is treated with conventional liquid chemicals.  Ecosphere also owns 100% of the global right to its patented Ecos PowerCube® technology for all industries and applications worldwide.

·

Ecospheres business model revolves upon the licensing of its intellectual property to strategic customers and partners around the world that are well positioned and capitalized to bring Ecospheres patented technologies to their respective industries and countries. Additionally, Ecosphere has its own in-house design, engineering and manufacturing facilities to support customers and licensees that choose to not manufacture Ecosphere’s patented technologies themselves. In addition to the various licensing opportunities that are available for its patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technologies globally, the Company’s 30.6% interest in FNES is also available for sale to strategic buyers.

·

In November 2014, Ecosphere launched its Ecos GrowCube, a state-of-the-art turnkey fully automated greenhouse that will use hydroponic growing techniques to maximize crop production using Ecospheres Ozonix® patents and thereby eliminating the use of toxic chemicals and pesticides without soil or fossil fuels.


Management believes that the realization of any of the above events will provide sufficient liquidity for the foreseeable future. However, Ecosphere cannot provide any assurance that these plans will be successful. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.


In addition to needing capital to support its operations, Ecosphere has a $50,000 note payable due in April 2015 (proceeds of three month note received in January 2015, see Note 23) and $4,885,000 in convertible notes payable due over the next 12 months from the date of this filing. This consists of $645,000 due in August 2015, $1,500,000 due in September 2015, $333,000 due in November 2015, $1,867,000 due in December 2015, $245,000 due in January 2016 and $295,000 due in March 2016. See Note 10.


2.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Principles of Consolidation


The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Ecosphere, it’s wholly and majority owned subsidiaries and through May 23, 2013, Ecosphere Energy Services, LLC (“EES”), now Fidelity National Environmental Solutions LLC (“FNES”). On May 24, 2013, the Company sold a 12% interest in FNES and transferred an additional 1.5% interest to a board member of FNES, reducing the Company’s ownership in FNES from 52.6% to 39.1%. Since May 24, 2013, the Company accounts for its investment in FNES under the equity method. On July 31, 2013, the Company sold an additional 8% interest in FNES and transferred an additional 0.5% interest to a board member of FNES, reducing the Company’s ownership in FNES from 39.1% to 30.6% (See Notes 3 and 4). The Company continues to account for its investment in FNES under the equity method. All intercompany account balances and transactions have been eliminated.



F-11



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Noncontrolling Interest


Prior to May 24, 2013, the Company accounted for its less than 100% interest in FNES in accordance with ASC Topic 810, Consolidation, and accordingly the Company presented noncontrolling interests as a component of equity on its consolidated balance sheets and reported noncontrolling interest net income or loss under the heading “Net (income) loss applicable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiary” in the consolidated statements of operations.


In October 2013, the Company’s subsidiary, Ecosphere Mining, LLC, granted to its directors an aggregate of 5% ownership in Ecosphere Mining, LLC. Accordingly the Company is presenting noncontrolling interests as a component of equity on its consolidated balance sheets and reported noncontrolling interest net income or loss under the heading “Net (income) loss applicable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiary” in the consolidated statements of operations.


Use of Estimates


The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates in the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, valuation of inventory, estimates of depreciable lives and valuation of property and equipment, estimates of amortization periods for intangible assets, valuation of beneficial conversion features in convertible debt, valuation of equity based instruments issued for other than cash, valuation of derivatives, valuation of remaining interest in FNES upon deconsolidation and the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets.


Cash Equivalents


The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.


Restricted Cash


Restricted cash as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 represents a $50,050 and $25,000 compensating balance, respectively, held pursuant to certain of the Company's short-term financing arrangements.

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts


Accounts receivable are stated at their estimated net realizable value. The Company reviews its accounts to estimate losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. Any required allowance is based on specific analysis of past due accounts and also considers historical trends of write-offs. Past due status is based on how recently payments have been received from customers. The Company’s collection experience has been favorable reflecting a limited number of customers. No allowance was deemed necessary at December 31, 2014 and 2013.


Inventory


Inventory is primarily comprised of raw materials to manufacture water treatment equipment, finished goods representing one Ecos PowerCube® completed for future sale and demonstration purposes where no binding sales contract exists and work-in-process representing water treatment equipment and one Ecos GrowCube™ being manufactured and assembled for future sale. Inventory on hand at each respective balance sheet date is stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using a weighted average methodology. See Note 7.


Property and Equipment and Capital Leases


Property and equipment is stated at cost. For equipment manufactured for use by the Company, cost includes direct component parts plus direct labor. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives generally ranging from three to seven years. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed using the straight-line method over the lesser of the useful life of the asset or the remaining term of the lease. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.




F-12



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Debt Issuance Cost


The Company accounts for debt issuance cost in accordance with ASC 470, Debt. The costs associated with the issuance of debt are capitalized and amortized over the life of the underlying debt instrument.

 

Patents

 

Patents are stated at cost and are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated future periods to be benefited. All patents at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 have either been acquired from a related company or assigned to the Company by the Company's founder. Patents are recorded at the historical cost basis. The Company recognized amortization expense of $9,890 and $9,220 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

The Company accounts for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of ASC 360-10, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. This statement requires that long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less, costs to sell.


Investment in Unconsolidated Investee


The Company accounts for investments in which the Company owns more than 20% of the investee, using the equity method in accordance with ASC Topic 323, Investments—Equity Method and Joint Ventures. Under the equity method, an investor initially records an investment in the stock of an investee at cost, and adjusts the carrying amount of the investment to recognize the investor's share of the earnings or losses of the investee after the date of acquisition. The amount of the adjustment is included in the determination of net income by the investor, and such amount reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between investor cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment. The investment of an investor is also adjusted to reflect the investor's share of changes in the investee's capital. Dividends received from an investee reduce the carrying amount of the investment. A series of operating losses of an investee or other factors may indicate that a decrease in value of the investment has occurred which is other than temporary and which should be recognized even though the decrease in value is in excess of what would otherwise be recognized by application of the equity method.


Derivative Instruments


ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC Topic 815”), establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments and for hedging activities by requiring that all derivatives be recognized in the balance sheet and measured at fair value. Gains or losses resulting from changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognized in earnings or recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) depending on the purpose of the derivatives and whether they qualify and have been designated for hedge accounting treatment. The Company does not have any derivative instruments for which it has applied hedge accounting treatment.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements

 

The Company measures its financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, as well as makes related disclosures, in accordance with ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC Topic 820”). For certain of our financial instruments, including cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Amounts recorded for notes payable, net of discount, also approximate fair value because current interest rates available to the Company for debt with similar terms and maturities are substantially the same.




F-13



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



ASC Topic 820 provides guidance with respect to valuation techniques to be utilized in the determination of fair value of assets and liabilities. Approaches include, (i) the market approach (comparable market prices), (ii) the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and (iii) the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). ASC Topic 820 utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:

Level 1:

Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2:

Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.

Level 3:

Unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore developed using estimates and assumptions developed by us, which reflect those that a market participant would use.


Revenue Recognition


For each of our revenue sources we have the following policies:


Equipment and Component Sales


Revenues and related costs on production type contracts are recognized using the “percentage of completion method” of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35, Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production Type Contracts (“ASC 605-35”). Under this method, contract revenues and related expenses are recognized over the performance period of the contract in direct proportion to the costs incurred as a percentage of total estimated costs for the entirety of the contract. Costs include direct material, direct labor, subcontract labor and any allocable indirect costs. All unallocable indirect costs and corporate general and administrative costs are charged to the periods as incurred. However, in the event a loss on a contract is foreseen, the Company will recognize the loss as it is determined. Contract costs plus recognized profits are accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received are recorded to a deferred revenue liability account. The net of these two accounts for any individual project is presented as "Costs and estimated earnings in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts," an asset account, or "Billings in excess of costs and estimated earnings on uncompleted contracts," a liability account.


Production type contracts that do not qualify for use of the percentage of completion method, the Company accounts for these contracts using the “completed contract method” of accounting in accordance with ASC 605-35-25-57. Under this method, contract costs are accumulated as deferred assets, and billings and/or cash received is recorded to a deferred revenue liability account, during the periods of construction, but no revenues, costs, or profits are recognized in operations until the period within which completion of the contract occurs. Costs include direct material, direct labor, subcontract labor and any allocable indirect costs. All unallocable indirect costs and corporate general and administrative costs are charged to the periods as incurred. However, in the event a loss on a contract is foreseen, the Company will recognize the loss as it is determined. The deferred asset (accumulated contract costs) in excess of the deferred liability (billings and/or cash received) is classified as a current asset under "Costs in excess of billings on uncompleted contracts". The deferred liability (billings and/or cash received) in excess of the deferred asset (accumulated contract costs) is classified under current liabilities as "Billings in excess of costs on uncompleted contracts".


A contract is considered complete when all costs except insignificant items have been incurred; the equipment is operating according to specifications and has been accepted by the customer.


The Company may manufacture products in anticipation of a future contract. Since there are no binding contracts relating to the purchase of these products, ASC 605-35 is not applicable. Accordingly, revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, products are delivered to and accepted by the customer, economic risk of loss has passed to the customer, the price is fixed or determinable, collection is reasonably assured, and any future obligations of the Company are insignificant.


Field Services (See Note 4)


Revenue from water treatment contracts is earned based upon the volume of water processed plus additional period based contractual charges and is recognized in the period the service is provided. Payments received in advance of the performance of services or of the delivery of goods are deferred as liabilities until the services are performed or the goods are delivered.

 



F-14



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Some projects the Company undertakes are based upon our providing water processing services for fixed periods of time. Revenue from these projects is recognized based upon the number of days the service has been provided during the reporting period.


After Market Part Sales


The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of aftermarket parts during the period in which the parts are delivered to the buyer.


Royalties


Revenue from technology license royalties will be recorded if and as the royalties are earned. No royalty revenue has been earned to date.


The Company includes shipping and handling fees billed to customers in revenues and shipping and handling costs in cost of revenues.


Product Warranties


The Company accrues for product warranties when the loss is probable and can be reasonably estimated. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has no product warranty accrual given its lack of long-term historical warranty experience and the fact that more recent warranty repair experience relates to what we believe are non-recurring issues and are therefore, not indicative of future warranty estimates or material to the Company’s operations. The warranty period on the first Ozonix® EF80 unit constructed ended September 22, 2013 and the warranty period on the following three units ended during the three months ended December 31, 2013. The remaining eight units had warranty periods that ended by December 31, 2014. In 2013, the Company sold two Ozonix® EF80 units to Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC and the warranty periods on those units end in July and November 2015.


Research and Development


In accordance with ASC Topic 730-10, Research and Development – Overall, expenditures for research and development of the Company's products are expensed when incurred, and are included in operating expenses. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company’s research and development costs were de minimis. The Company recognized research and development cost of $241,192 for the year ended December 31, 2014, respectively.

 

Advertising

 

The Company conducts advertising for the promotion of its products and services. In accordance with ASC 720-35, Advertising Costs, are charged to operations when incurred and totaled $112,112 and $166,952 for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Equity-based Compensation


Compensation expense for all stock-based employee and director compensation awards granted is based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation (“ASC Topic 718”). The Company recognizes these compensation costs on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, which is generally the option vesting term. Vesting terms vary based on the individual grant terms.


The Company estimates the fair value of stock-based compensation awards on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton (“BSM”) option pricing model, which was developed for use in estimating the value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are freely transferable. In addition, option valuation models require the input of highly subjective assumptions including the expected stock price volatility. The BSM option pricing model considers, among other factors, the expected term of the award and the expected volatility of the Company’s stock price. Expected terms are calculated using the Simplified Method, volatility is determined based on the Company's historical stock price trends and the discount rate is based upon treasury rates with instruments of similar expected terms. Warrants granted to non-employees are accounted for in accordance with the measurement and recognition criteria of ASC Topic 505-50, Equity Based Payments to Non-Employees.




F-15



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Income Taxes


The Company uses the asset and liability method in accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on difference between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. A valuation allowance is provided to offset any net deferred tax assets for which management believes it is more likely than not that the net deferred asset will not be realized.


Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes


The Company applies the provisions of ASC Topic 740-10-25, Income Taxes – Overall – Recognition (“ASC Topic 740-10-25”) with respect to the accounting for uncertainty of income tax positions. ASC Topic 740-10-25 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in a company’s financial statements and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. ASC Topic 740-10-25 also provides guidance on derecognition, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition. As of December 31, 2014, tax years since 2011 remain open for IRS audit. The Company has received no notice of audit from the Internal Revenue Service for any of the open tax years.

Net Income (Loss) Per Share


The Company displays earnings per share in accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share (“ASC 260”). ASC 260 requires dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings per share (“EPS”). Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share include the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock.


The computation of basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows:


 

 

For the year ended

December 31, 2014

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

Diluted

 

Numerator

 

 

 

 

 

  

Net (loss) income applicable to common stock

 

$

(11,566,098

)

 

$

(11,566,098

)

Denominator

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding

 

 

164,294,045

 

 

 

164,294,045

 

Warrants and options

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

164,294,045

 

 

 

164,294,045

 

Net (loss) income per share

 

$

(0.07

)

 

$

(0.07

)


 

 

For the year ended

December 31, 2013

 

 

 

Basic

 

 

Diluted

 

Numerator

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income applicable to common stock

 

$

19,274,512

 

 

$

19,274,512

 

Denominator

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average common shares outstanding

 

 

163,054,587

 

 

 

163,054,587

 

Warrants and options

 

 

 

 

 

1,361,194

 

 

 

 

163,054,587

 

 

 

164,415,781

 

Net (loss) income per share

 

$

0.12

 

 

$

0.12

 


Securities that could potentially dilute basic EPS in the future, that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS because to do so would have been anti-dilutive for the periods presented, consist of the following:




F-16



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Anti-Dilutive Potential Common Shares


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Convertible debt

 

 

33,406,729

 

 

 

8,274,479

 

Convertible preferred stock

 

 

362,497

 

 

 

362,497

 

Options and warrants to purchase common stock

 

 

96,755,199

 

 

 

70,915,167

 

Total Anti-Dilutive Potential Common Shares

 

 

130,524,425

 

 

 

79,551,909

 


New Accounting Standards


In August 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-15, “Presentation of Financial Statements - Going Concern (Subtopic 205-40); Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern”. This update requires management of the Company to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. This update is effective for the annual period ending after December 15, 2016, and for annual and interim periods thereafter. Early adoption is permitted. The Company does not expect this standard to have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements upon adoption.


3.

GAIN ON SALE OF INTEREST IN SUBSIDIARY


As a result of the Company selling a 12% interest in FNES in May 2013, the Company recognized a gain on deconsolidation on the sale of FNES of $29,474,609 during the year ended December 31, 2013, consisting of the following:


Net cash consideration

 

$

5,850,000

 

Retained investment

 

 

19,546,600

 

Carrying value of non-controlling interest

 

 

9,235,254

 

Net assets of EES

 

 

(5,157,245

)

Gain on deconsolidation

 

$

29,474,609

 


4.

INVESTMENT IN UNCONSOLIDATED INVESTEE


On May 24, 2013, ETI sold 12% of FNES to Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE:FNF) (“FNF”), a Fortune 500 company and an existing FNES member, for $6 million under a Unit Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”). In consideration for facilitating the transaction, ETI transferred an additional 1.5% interest of FNES to an existing FNES member. Additionally, for a 90-day period, FNF had the option to purchase an additional 8% of FNES from ETI for $4 million. The option was exercised in July 2013. In connection with the July 2013 transaction, ETI transferred an additional 0.5% interest of FNES and paid $250,000 in cash to the same existing FNES member as discussed above and granted to FNF, an option to acquire an additional 12% interest in FNES for $6 million by December 31, 2013. The option was not exercised. As a result, on December 31, 2013 and 2014, ETI and FNF owned 30.6% and 39% of FNES, respectively.




F-17



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



As a result of its sale of a 12% interest in FNES on May 24, 2013, the Company deconsolidated FNES and accounts for its investment using the equity method of accounting. The Company sold an additional 8% interest in FNES in July 2013, reducing its ownership interest in FNES to 30.6% as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2014. Financial information for FNES as of December 31, 2013 and 2014 and for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the Period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, which is derived from the FNES audited financial statements is summarized below and full financials are included elsewhere in the 10-K for fiscal year ended December 31, 2014 in accordance with Regulation S-X rule 3-09:


 

 

December 31,

2014

 

December 31,

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

196,115

 

$

1,462,397

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

316,945

 

 

431,978

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

3,897,742

 

 

6,702,562

 

Inventory, net

 

 

108,696

 

 

474,261

 

Prepaid Expenses and other current assets

 

 

21,523

 

 

1,984

 

Intangible Assets, net

 

 

1,736,111

 

 

1,875,000

 

Slow moving inventory

 

 

24,864

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

8,200

 

 

4,200

 

Total Assets

 

$

6,310,196

 

$

10,952,382

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND MEMBERS' EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

$

188,162

 

$

196,933

 

Debt

 

 

1,306,613

 

 

9,142

 

Debt, related party

 

 

1,961,793

 

 

3,470,709

 

Members’ equity

 

 

2,853,628

 

 

7,275,598

 

Total equity

 

$

6,310,196

 

$

10,952,382

 


 

 

For the

year ended

December 31,

2014

 

For the period

May 24, 2013

through

December 31,

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenues

 

$

3,229,357

 

$

3,789,722

 

Cost of sales

 

 

2,317,024

 

 

1,551,011

 

Gross profit

 

 

912,333

 

 

2,238,711

 

Operating expenses

 

 

6,260,423

 

 

4,284,576

 

Operating loss

 

 

(5,348,090

)

 

(2,045,865

)

Other income

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

Other expense

 

 

(177,287

)

 

(44,302

)

Net loss

 

 

(5,500,377

)

 

(2,090,167

)

Ownership interest (average)

 

 

31

%

 

31

%

Share of net loss

 

$

(1,682,501

)

$

(627,572

)

Elimination of intra-entity profit

 

$

(18,639

)

$

(299,589

)

Total equity interest loss recorded

 

$

(1,701,140

)

$

(927,161

)

Investment

 

$

12,668,298

 

$

14,369,439

 




F-18



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Transactions with FNES:


The Company sold one Ozonix® EF10M unit to FNES during the year ended December 31, 2014. A portion of the profits from the sale reflects the Company’s ownership share and is eliminated through an adjustment to “Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee.” The table below sets forth the revenues and gross profits recognized by the Company and the calculation of the amounts eliminated in the “Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee” line on the Statement of Operations:


Revenue recognized on sales to FNES

 

$

416,600

 

Cost of sales on sales to FNES

 

 

355,673

 

Approximate ownership interest in FNES

 

 

31

%

Elimination of the Company’s share of profits on sales to FNES

 

$

18,639

 


The Company sold two Ozonix® EF80 units to FNES during the year ended December 31, 2013. A portion of the profits from the sale reflects the Company’s ownership share and is eliminated through an adjustment to “Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee.” The table below sets forth the revenues and gross profits recognized by the Company and the calculation of the amounts eliminated in the “Loss on investment in unconsolidated investee” line on the Statement of Operations:


Revenue recognized on sales to FNES

 

$

4,509,478

 

Cost of sales on sales to FNES

 

 

3,530,183

 

Approximate ownership interest in FNES

 

 

31

%

Elimination of the Company’s share of profits on sales to FNES

 

$

299,589

 

 

5.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

 

As of December 31, 2014, accounts receivable in the amount of $55,140 consisted primarily of amounts due from one related party customer, FNES that consisted of a $44,310 service fee and $8,430 in miscellaneous charges.


At December 31, 2013, the Company had an accounts receivable balance of approximately $3.5 million due from FNES as noted below. The $3.5 million accounts receivable balance primarily consisted of the $3.5 million remaining balance FNES owed on two Ozonix® EF80 units purchased in July and November 2013. In March 2014, Ecosphere sold the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in July 2013 in exchange for $1 million in cash. The buyer of the note is an FNES member and director. The Company also sold 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million in cash during the three months ended March 31, 2014. During the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company sold the remaining 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had no accounts receivable balance in connection with the notes payable for the Ozonix® EF80 units sold to FNES in July and November 2013.


As a result of the sale of notes receivable the Company recognized a loss of $985,085 for the year ended December 31, 2014.


As of December 31, 2013, accounts receivable in the amount of $3,478,851 consisted of amounts due from one related party customer, FNES, in connection with the sale of Ozonix® equipment. The Company sold two Ozonix® EF80 units in July and November 2013 to FNES, pursuant to which FNES paid the Company $500,000 and $250,000 and agreed to pay 36 monthly payments of $52,778 and $59,722, respectively. Note 21, Concentration of Risk.


6.

PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets are summarized as follows:


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Prepaid insurance

 

$

17,331

 

 

$

28,436

 

Vendor advances

 

 

15,494

 

 

 

42,500

 

Prepaid professional fees

 

 

7,500

 

 

 

39,000

 

Other

 

 

14,784

 

 

 

11,544

 

Total prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

$

55,109

 

 

$

121,480

 



F-19



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



7.

INVENTORY


Inventory consists of the following:


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Raw materials

 

$

46,804

 

 

$

178,982

 

Work in process

 

 

210,948

 

 

 

40,296

 

Finished goods

 

 

301,398

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

559,150

 

 

$

219,278

 


At December 31, 2014, the Company recorded an inventory reserve for slow moving parts that have not moved in or out of the Company’s inventory in over one year; the value of these parts is $142,802. The majority of these parts are related to the manufacturing of Ozonix® EF80 units that the Company has not been manufacturing within the last year. Since the slow moving inventory is not obsolete and may have a future use, the Company then wrote down the slow moving inventory by 50%. This is the best estimate taking into consideration that the parts are only slow moving not obsolete. The balance of the slow moving inventory was $71,401 and is included as a long-term asset in the accompanying consolidated balance sheet.


8.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

Property and equipment consists of the following:


 

 

Estimated Useful

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

Lives in Years

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Machinery and equipment

 

5

 

 

$

2,061,914

 

 

$

2,329,731

 

Furniture and fixtures

 

5 to 7

 

 

 

358,974

 

 

 

303,026

 

Automobiles and trucks

 

3 to 5

 

 

 

142,141

 

 

 

142,141

 

Leasehold improvements

 

5

 

 

 

524,263

 

 

 

469,230

 

Office equipment

 

5

 

 

 

620,858

 

 

 

608,633

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3,708,150

 

 

 

3,852,761

 

Less total accumulated depreciation

 

 

 

 

 

(2,351,522

)

 

 

(1,995,160

)

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

 

$

1,356,628

 

 

$

1,857,601

 


During the year ended December 31, 2014, additions to property and equipment included computer equipment and software, a Company manufactured fixture to house the Company’s raw metals inventory and additions to a mobile operations vehicle originally purchased during the fourth quarter of 2013. The Company also had additions to leasehold improvements and office equipment relating to the build out of the Ecosphere Mining office in Park City, Utah.


In November 2014, the Company sold a mobile operations vehicle that had been part of its fixed assets since 2013. The net book value of such unit was written off and the Company recognized a loss of $99,985 on the transaction. The Company also sold a previously fully depreciated piece of equipment for a de minimis gain which is also included in loss on sale/disposal of fixed assets, net in the accompanying consolidated statement of operations.


During the year ended December 31, 2013, additions to property and equipment included the purchase of a work truck, mobile operations vehicle, computer equipment and software, and additional construction in progress of a piece of equipment for the treatment of wastewater outside of oil and gas exploration. The unit was completed in the third quarter and the amounts were reclassified from construction in progress to machinery and equipment. In addition, the Company has additions to leasehold improvements in connection with the new Ecosphere Mining office in Park City, UT and the addition of one Ozonix® Ore Recovery Equipment to machinery and equipment to be used in the mining application.


With the May 2013 deconsolidation of FNES (as discussed in Note 4), the Company removed assets with a net book value of approximately $3.0 million.


Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 amounted to $419,709 and $1,008,926, respectively.




F-20



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



9.

ACCRUED LIABILITIES

 

The major components of accrued liabilities are summarized as follows:

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Accrued payroll and related benefits

 

$

256,807

 

 

$

318,139

 

Accrued interest

 

 

534,475

 

 

 

277,560

 

Accrued professional fees

 

 

6,000

 

 

 

22,538

 

Other accrued liabilities (See Note 20)

 

 

183,730

 

 

 

225,656

 

Total accrued liabilities

 

$

981,012

 

 

$

843,893

 


10.

CONVERTIBLE NOTES PAYABLE, NOTES PAYABLE AND OTHER DEBT

Convertible Notes Payable

 

 

December 31,

2014

 

 

December 31,

2013

 

In November 2014, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $500,000. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 10%, matures in December 2015 and is convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.12 per share. In connection with the issuance of the note, the Company issued to the investor five-year warrants to purchase 8,333,333 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.12 per share. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants and beneficial conversion feature of $500,000 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility of 72.69%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rate of 1.56% and no dividends. As of December 31, 2014, the unamortized amount of the discount was $452,828 and accrued interest was $4,722.

 

$

47,172

 

 

$

 

In September 2014, the Company issued a convertible note in the aggregate principal amount of $1,000,000. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 10%, matures in September 2015 and is convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.115 per share. In connection with the issuance of the note, the Company issued to the investor five-year warrants to purchase 17,391,304 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.115 per share. The Company also reduced the exercise price of the investor’s existing 562,500 warrants to $0.115 and extended the term of the warrants to five-years from the date of the convertible note agreement. The fair value of the extended warrants totaled $28,043 and is to be amortized over the one year debt term. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants and beneficial conversion feature of $1,000,000 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility of 70.11%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rate of 1.83% and no dividends. As of December 31, 2014, the unamortized amount of the discount was $700,000 and accrued interest was $29,167.

 

 

300,000

 

 

 

 

In January 2014, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $245,000. The notes accrue interest at an annual rate of 10%, mature in January 2016 and are convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.30 per share. In connection with the issuance of the notes, the Company issued to the investors five-year warrants to purchase 1,633,328 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.35 per share. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants and beneficial conversion feature of $234,211 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility ranging between 78.01% and 78.26%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rate ranging between 1.61% and 1.77% and no dividends. In January 2015, the notes were modified, adjusting the warrant exercise prices and conversion rates of the convertible debt (see Note 23). As of December 31, 2014, the unamortized amount of the discount was $121,474 and accrued interest was $23,611.

 

 

123,526

 

 

 

 




F-21



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013




 

 

December 31,

2014

 

 

December 31,

2013

 

In December 2013, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,700,000. The notes accrue interest at an annual rate of 10%, mature in December 2015 and are convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.30 per share. In connection with the issuance of the notes, the Company issued to the investors five-year warrants to purchase 11,333,328 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.35 per share. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants and beneficial conversion feature of $1,700,000 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility ranging between 78.23% and 78.47%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rate ranging between 1.55% and 1.71% and no dividends. In November and December 2014, the Company reduced three of the note holders conversion rates and warrant exercise prices to $0.12 per share. As a result of the modification, the Company recorded a debt discount of $915,273. The modification was accounted for as a debt extinguishment in accordance with ASC 470-50-40 and reissuance of the existing debt, resulting in a loss on debt extinguishment of $819,723 which included discounts associated with the old debt. In January 2015, an additional $150,000 of notes were modified, adjusting the warrant exercise prices and conversion rates of the convertible debt (see Note 23). As of December 31, 2014, the unamortized amount of the discount was $906,594 and accrued interest was $175,625.

 

 

793,406

 

 

 

11,096

 

In February 2013, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $750,000. The notes accrue interest at an annual rate of 8.5%, mature in February 2015 and were convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.381 per share. Additionally, the note holders may elect to have up to 32.35% of the original principal amount of this Note repaid 18 months following the issuance date. In connection with the issuance of the notes, the Company issued to the investors five-year warrants to purchase 984,375 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.381 per share. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants and beneficial conversion feature of $391,771 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility of 92.82%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rate of 0.86%, and no dividends. In December 2013, the holder elected to covert $37,500 of the convertible note into 98,425 shares of the Company’s common stock. As a result of the December 2013 financing, the Company was in violation of certain covenants included in the securities purchase agreements with the investors.  In March 2014, the investors agreed to waive their rights under securities purchase agreements in exchange for a reduction in the conversion price of the notes and exercise price of the warrants to $0.30 per share.  The Company also agreed to issue additional warrants to acquire 265,625 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.30 per share.  As a result of the modification, the Company recorded an additional debt discount of $37,432 for the increase in the fair value of the warrants. The modification was accounted for as a debt extinguishment in accordance with ASC 470-50-40 and reissuance of the existing debt, resulting in the immediate expensing of the remaining discount of $164,503. There was no beneficial conversion feature on the exchanged debt. The Company received notice of a partial redemption request of $250,868 in August 2014, which is comprised of 32.35% of the original principal amount together with any and all accrued but unpaid interest. In August 2014, the holders agreed to waive their right to the early partial redemption and the Company paid the holders $24,263 plus $3,500 in lawyer’s fees. In addition to the payment, the Company reduced the conversion price under the Notes and the exercise price under the Warrants to $0.115 per share. As a result of the modification, the Company recorded a debt discount of $302,660. The modification was accounted for as a debt extinguishment in accordance with ASC 470-50-40 and reissuance of the existing debt, resulting in a loss on debt extinguishment of $61,051 which included discounts associated with the old debt and extension fees paid to the lender. In November 2014, the holders elected to convert $67,500 of the convertible notes into 586,957 shares of the Company’s common stock (see Note 15). As of December 31, 2014, the unamortized amount of the discount was $42,462 and accrued interest was $14,500. The Company began making quarterly interest payments on October 1, 2013, for accrued interest on these convertible notes. In 2015, certain of the accrued interest was paid in stock, based upon the contracted terms (see Note 23). These Notes, further were amended in March 2015, see Note 23.

 

 

602,538

 

 

 

499,888

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 



F-22



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013




 

 

 

December 31,

2014

 

 

 

December 31,

2013

 

In 2010 and 2011, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,225,000. The notes accrue interest at an annual rate of 10%, matured in the quarter ended March 31, 2013 and were convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.70 per share. In connection with the issuance of the notes, the Company issued to the investors five-year warrants to purchase 875,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.70 per share. The Company recorded a discount related to the warrants of $302,387 based upon the relative fair value of the warrants calculated using the Black Scholes valuation method and the following assumptions: volatility of 100.73% to 112.55%, an expected term of five years, a risk-free discount rates of 1.74% to 2.06%, and no dividends. During the second quarter of 2013, the Company repaid an aggregate of approximately $1.1 million of principal and interest on the notes. Holders of an aggregate of $295,000 of principal agreed to extend the maturity of their notes to March 2014. As consideration of the extensions the Company reduced the conversion price of the extended notes to $0.42 and issued warrants to purchase 368,467 shares of common stock for $0.42 per share over five years. As a result of extending the notes, the Company recorded additional discounts for beneficial conversion feature and relative fair value of the warrants totaling $111,738, which was being amortized through the extended maturity of the notes. Subsequent to March 31, 2014, the holders of the notes due in March 2014 agreed to extend the maturity dates of the notes to September 2014 for $50,000 of principal and March 2015 for $245,000 of principal, totaling $295,000. These Notes were further extended in March 2015 (see Note 23). As of December 31, 2014, there was no unamortized amount of the discounts. Accrued interest at December 31, 2014 was $118,714.

 

 

295,000

 

 

 

271,176

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

2,161,642

 

 

 

782,160

 

Less Current Portion, net of discounts

 

 

(2,038,116

)

 

 

(271,176

)

Convertible notes payable, long term, net of discounts

 

$

123,526

 

 

$

510,984

 


A summary of convertible notes payable and the related discounts as of December 31:


 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Principal amount of convertible notes payable

 

$

4,385,000

 

 

$

2,707,500

 

Unamortized discount

 

 

(2,223,358

)

 

 

(1,925,340

)

Convertible notes payable, net of discount

 

 

2,161,642

 

 

 

782,160

 

Less: current portion

 

 

(2,038,116

)

 

 

(271,176

)

Convertible notes payable, net of discount, less current portion

 

$

123,526

 

 

$

510,984

 


Note Payable


On January 1, 2012, the Company reclassified a non-interest bearing unsecured note payable to a former director totaling $272,399 of which $102,149 and $153,224 were outstanding at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, from related party debt due to lack of on-going affiliation with the lender. The note is payable in quarterly payments of $17,025. Accordingly, $102,149 is included as a current liability in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.




F-23



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Financing Obligations


 

 

December 31,

2014

 

 

December 31,

2013

 

Secured equipment notes payable in monthly installments of $3,406 over 60 months, maturing in July 2016 and accruing interest at an annual rate of 6.75%

 

$

61,212

 

 

$

102,321

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured vehicle notes payable in monthly installments of $1,046 over 72 months, maturing in September 2019 and accruing interest at an annual rate of 9.65%.

 

 

46,777

 

 

 

54,690

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured non-interest bearing, equipment notes payable in monthly installments of $8,333 over 12 months, maturing in December 2014 with a $15,000 deposit due January 1, 2014.

 

 

8,326

 

 

 

115,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured non-interest bearing, software notes payable in monthly installments totaling $176 over 33 months maturing in December 2016.

 

 

3,494

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

119,809

 

 

 

272,011

 

Less Current Portion

 

 

(56,215

)

 

 

(163,746

)

Financing obligations, long-term portion

 

$

63,594

 

 

$

108,265

 


Capital Lease Obligation


The Company entered into a capital lease to purchase a forklift costing $78,896 in July of 2012. The lease is payable in 60 monthly installments of $1,491 including interest at an implied rate of 5.05% through July 2017. The Company is entitled to buy the equipment for a bargain purchase price of $1 at the end of the lease.


Future minimum lease payments under this capital lease obligation as of December 31, 2014, by fiscal year, are as follows:


For the year ended December 31,

 

Payment

 

2015

 

$

17,888

 

2016

 

 

17,888

 

2017

 

 

8,946

 

Total

 

 

44,722

 

Less implied interest

 

 

(2,793

)

Capital lease obligation

 

 

41,929

 

Less current potion

 

 

(16,141

)

Long-term portion

 

$

25,788

 


Third Party Debt


Aggregate annual maturities of third party debt are as follows as of December 31, 2014:


For the year ended December 31,

 

Amount

 

2015

 

$

4,314,505

 

2016

 

 

296,457

 

2017

 

 

19,005

 

2018

 

 

11,219

 

2019

 

 

7,701

 

Total debt- face value

 

 

4,648,887

 

Less: unamortized discount

 

 

(2,223,358

)

Net debt

 

$

2,425,529

 




F-24



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



11.

RESTRUCTURING RESERVE

 

In June 2009, the Board of Directors approved an exit strategy to close the Company’s New York office in order to reduce operating costs. The Company recognized aggregate restructuring charges related to the office closing in the amount of $548,090 consisting of future lease commitments and employee severance costs in the amount of $246,920 and $301,170, respectively.

 

The fair market value of the future lease payments was calculated based upon the amount of future rents due as of September 30, 2009 of approximately $710,000 spread over 44 payments less estimated sublease income of $10,000 per month, and discounted conservatively at 3.5%, the current prime lending rate resulting in a charge to restructuring of $246,920 in accordance with ASC 420-10-15, Exit or Disposal Cost Obligations. The lease expired on April 30, 2013.


Based upon a review of the reserve during 2012, the Company determined that the reserve was in excess of the amount required by approximately $62,000. The Company adjusted the reserve accordingly.


The following table summarizes the activity in the restructuring reserve during the year ended December 31, 2013:


Restructuring Reserve:


 

 

 

 

2013

 

Balance, beginning of year

 

 

 

$

5,909

 

Accrual adjustments

 

 

 

 

10,621

 

Rental payments

 

 

 

 

(63,808

)

Sublease payments received

 

 

 

 

47,278

 

Balance, end of year

 

 

 

$

 


12.

DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

 

The Company applies the provisions of ASC Topic 815-40, Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (“ASC Topic 815-40”), under which convertible instruments and warrants, which contain terms that protect holders from declines in the stock price (reset provisions), may not be exempt from derivative accounting treatment. As a result, warrants are recorded as a liability and are revalued at fair value at each reporting date. Further, under derivative accounting, the warrants are recorded at their fair value. If the fair value of the warrants exceeds the face value of the related debt, the excess is recorded as change in fair value in operations on the issuance date. During the year ended December 31, 2014, upon the expiration of the warrants, the fair value decreased to zero. The Company has no warrants with repricing options outstanding at December 31, 2014.


2013


The Company calculated the estimated fair values of the liabilities for warrant derivative instruments at December 31, 2013 with the Black Scholes Pricing Model (“BSM”) option pricing model and Monte Carlo simulations using the closing price of the Company’s common stock of $0.28 and the ranges for volatility, expected term and risk free interest indicated in Table 3 that follows (BSM inputs only). As a result, for the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recognized a gain from the change in derivative liability of $90,531 in other income related to the warrant derivative instruments.


Table 3

 

BSM Inputs

 

 

Warrants

 

 

 

 

 

 

During

the Year Ended

December 31, 2013

 

As of

December 31, 2013

Volatility

 

45.99% - 86.82%

 

86.82%

Expected Term

 

0.13 – 1.02 years

 

0.27 years

Risk Free Interest Rate

 

0.02% - 0.14%

 

0.04%




F-25



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



13.

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS


We currently measure and report at fair value the liability for warrant derivative instruments. The fair value liabilities for price adjustable warrants have been recorded as determined utilizing the BSM option pricing model and Monte Carlo simulations. See Note 12. The following tables summarize our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

 

 

Balance at

December 31,

2014

 

 

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets

 

 

Significant Other Observable Inputs

 

 

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Level 1)

 

 

(Level 2)

 

 

(Level 3)

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of liability for warrant derivative instruments

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

Balance at

December 31,

2013

 

 

Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets

 

 

Significant Other Observable Inputs

 

 

Significant

Unobservable Inputs

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Level 1)

 

 

(Level 2)

 

 

(Level 3)

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of liability for warrant derivative instruments

 

$

3,671

 

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

$

3,671

 



The following is a roll forward through December 31, 2014 of the fair value liability of warrant derivative instruments and embedded conversion option derivative instruments:

 

 

 

Fair Value of

 

 

 

 

Liability for

 

 

 

 

Warrant

 

 

 

 

Derivative

 

 

 

 

Instruments

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2012

 

$

197,009

 

 

Fair value of warrants exercised

 

 

(102,807

)

 

Change in fair value included in other (income) loss

 

 

(90,531

)

 

Balance at December 31, 2013

 

 

3,671

 

 

Fair value of warrants exercised

 

 

(1,764

)

 

Change in fair value included in other (income) loss

 

 

(1,907

)

 

Balance at December 31, 2014

 

$

 

 




F-26



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



14.

REDEEMABLE CONVERTIBLE CUMULATIVE PREFERRED STOCK

 

Series A

 

At December 31, 2014 and 2013 there were 6 shares of Series A Redeemable Convertible Cumulative 15% Preferred Stock outstanding. The shares are redeemable at the option of the Company at $27,500 per share plus accrued dividends or redeemable at the option of the holder upon a change of control event at $25,000 per share plus accrued dividends. A Change of Control ("CoC") event means a transfer of greater than fifty percent of the shares of common stock of the Company. The shares are convertible each into 24,000 common shares. Our Series A preferred stock provides for annual cash dividends at the rate of $3,750 per share. Accrued dividends totaled $1,075,994 and $1,053,494 on December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Series B

 

At December 31, 2014 and 2013 there were 241, respectively, of Series B Redeemable Convertible Cumulative 10% Preferred Stock outstanding. The shares are redeemable at the option of the Company at $3,000 per share plus accrued dividends or redeemable at the option of the holder upon a Change of Control (“CoC”) event at $2,500 per share plus accrued dividends. The shares are convertible each into 835 common shares. Our Series B preferred stock provides for annual cash dividends at the rate of $250 per share. Accrued dividends totaled $1,974,785 and $1,914,533 on December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

15.

COMMON STOCK

 

The Company is authorized to issue up to 300,000,000 shares of its $0.01 par value common stock as of December 31, 2014.


Shares Issued for Cash


2013


The Company issued 1,065,314 shares of common stock for $170,688 in cash through the exercise of warrants with exercise prices between $0.14 and $0.24 per share.


Shares Issued in Cashless Option Exercises


2014


In February 2014, the Company issued 8,753 shares of common stock to a director upon the cashless exercise of options to purchase 44,546 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.229 per share and based upon a market price of the Company’s common stock of $0.285 per share.


2013


The Company issued 1,570,435 shares of common stock in connection with the cashless exercise of options to purchase 4,200,000 shares of the Company’s common stock exercisable at $0.29 per share and based upon the market values of the Company’s common stock ranging from $0.46 to $0.50 per share.


Shares Issued in Payment of Accrued Interest

 

2013

 

In January 2013, the Company issued 16,153 shares of common stock with a value of $6,000 based on the quoted trading price of $0.39 per share were issued as payment for accrued interest in the same amount.

 



F-27



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Shares Issued Upon Conversion of Debt and Other Liabilities

 

2014


The Company issued 586,957 shares of common stock to lenders upon conversion of secured original issue discount notes in the amount of $67,500 at a conversion rate of $0.115 per share.


2013


The Company issued 98,425 shares of common stock to lenders upon conversion of secured original issue discount notes in the amount of $37,500 at a conversion rate of $0.381 per share.


16.

RESTRICTED STOCK


The Company recognized share-based compensation expense related to stock grants, issued per the terms of the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, of $60,000 for the year ended December 31, 2013, respectively net of cancellations/forfeitures. There was no recognized share-based compensation expense related to stock grants for the year ended December 31, 2014. The following table summarizes non-vested restricted stock and the related activity for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:


 

 

Shares

 

 

Weighted

Average

Grant-

Date Fair

Value

 

Non-vested at December 31, 2012

 

 

84,000

 

 

$

0.45

 

Granted

 

 

105,263

 

 

$

0.48

 

Vested

 

 

(189,263

)

 

$

0.48

 

Non-vested at December 31, 2013

 

 

 

 

$

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

$

 

Vested

 

 

 

 

$

 

Non-vested at December 31, 2014

 

 

 

 

$

 


At December 31, 2014 there was no unrecognized share-based compensation expense from non-vested restricted stock. The above 2013 grants relate to various directors and director advisors accepting such grants as outlined in Note 17.


17.

STOCK OPTIONS AND WARRANTS

 

The fair value of option and warrants granted during the periods presented is estimated on the date of grant using the BSM option pricing model. We used the following assumptions for options granted in the following periods:


 

 

For the Year Ended December 31,

 

 

2014

 

2013

Expected volatility

 

63.30% – 78.26%

 

45.99% - 93.39%

Expected term

 

3.5 -5 years

 

3.5 -5 years

Risk-free interest rate

 

1.10% - 1.77%

 

0.44% - 1.39%

Expected dividend yield

 

None

 

None


Stock-based compensation expense (excluding charges related to restricted stock) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $683,650 and $1,203,785, respectively net of cancellations/forfeitures. As of December 31, 2014, there was $478,334 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options granted under the Company’s option plans. This unrecognized compensation cost is expected to be recognized over the next 2 years.




F-28



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



EMPLOYEE FIXED STOCK OPTION PLANS:


2003 Equity Incentive Plan


On November 17, 2003, the Company adopted the 2003 Equity Incentive Plan. The Plan terminated in November 2013. As of December 31, 2013 and 2014 options to purchase 142,275 shares of common stock at $1.05 per share are outstanding under this Plan.


2003 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors and Advisory Board Members


On November 17, 2003, the Company adopted the 2003 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors and Advisory Board Members, which provided for the granting of 2,000,000 stock options, and increased on August 2, 2005 to 4,500,000, stock options to members of these Boards who are not full or part time employees of the Company. At December 31, 2014 and 2013 options to purchase 740,250 and 766,500 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $1.05 to $1.36 per share are outstanding under this Plan, respectively. The Plan shall continue in existence for a term of ten years unless terminated by the Company.


2006 Equity Incentive Plan


In May 2006, the Board approved the 2006 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2006 Plan”), and as part of that approval, agreed to not issue any awards under the 2003 Equity Incentive Plan and 2003 Stock Option Plan for Outside Directors and Advisory Board Members.


This plan, as amended, provides for the Company to issue up to 30,000,000 stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock or restricted stock units to our directors, employees and consultants.


Under the 2006 Plan, all of our Directors who are not employees or 10% shareholders and all Director Advisors automatically receive a grant of restricted stock and options with the number of shares and options based upon market price at the time of grant.


 

 

 

 

 

Restricted

 

 

 

Options (1)

 

 

Stock (1)(2)(3)

 

Qualifying Event

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initial appointment as Chairman of the Board

 

$

75,000

 

 

$

75,000

 

Initial election or appointment of non-employee Director

 

$

40,000

 

 

$

40,000

 

Initial appointment as an Advisory Board member

 

$

15,000

 

 

$

10,000

 

Annual grant to Chairman of the Board

 

$

40,000

 

 

$

40,000

 

Annual grant to non-employee Director

 

$

25,000

 

 

$

25,000

 

Annual grant to Advisory Board Member

 

$

10,000

 

 

$

5,000

 

Initial appointment and annual grant of and to a non-employee director as Lead Director (4) or Chairman of a member of the following:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and other committees at the discretion of the Compensation Committee

 

$

15,000

 

 

$

15,000

 

Initial appointment of an annual grant to a non-employee Director to the following:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Audit Committee, Compensation Committee and other committees at the discretion of the Compensation Committee

 

$

10,000

 

 

$

10,000

 

———————

(1)

In the event that the Company does not have authorized capital, these persons will receive grants of cash settled SARs.

(2)

The Director or Director Advisor may elect options instead of restricted stock in order to defer income taxes.

(3)

The Director or Director Advisor may at their option receive restricted stock units in lieu of restricted stock.

(4)

The Board may, when the Chairman is an employee, appoint a Director to act as Lead Director who will have all of the authority customarily associated with such a position. Our Board has appointed a Lead Director.


The initial grants to a Chairman of the Board, Board member and Advisory Board member shall vest in annual installments over three years and all other grants shall vest annually, all subject to the person’s continued service in the same capacity on the applicable vesting date. Generally, common stock may not be sold by our directors for six months after resignation.



F-29



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Limitation on Awards

 

The exercise price of options or SARs granted under the 2006 Plan shall not be less than the fair market value of the underlying common stock at the time of grant. In the case of ISOs, the exercise price may not be less than 110% of the fair market value in the case of 10% shareholders. Options and SARs granted under the 2006 Plan shall expire no later than five years after the date of grant. The option price may be paid in United States dollars by check or wire transfer or, at the discretion of the Board or Compensation Committee, by delivery of shares of our common stock having fair market value equal as of the date of exercise to the cash exercise price, or a combination thereof.


A maximum of 30,000,000 shares are available for grant under the 2006 Plan, as amended, and all outstanding options under the Plan provide a cashless exercise feature. The identification of individuals entitled to receive awards, the terms of the awards, and the number of shares subject to individual awards, are determined by our Board of Directors or the Compensation Committee, at their sole discretion. The aggregate number of shares with respect to which options or stock awards may be granted under the 2006 Plan and the purchase price per share, if applicable, shall be adjusted for any increase or decrease in the number of issued shares resulting from a stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split, recapitalization or similar event. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013 options to purchase 23,230,436 and 8,847,839 shares of common stock were outstanding under the 2006 Plan, respectively.

 

Expired options relate to options that have terminated because the expiration date has passed or have expired because the employee’s employment has been terminated, and the relevant expiration period has passed.


Employee Fixed Plan Options


 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

 

20,227,948

 

 

$

0.44

 

 

 

10,225,256

 

 

$

0.50

 

Granted

 

 

8,794,050

 

 

$

0.17

 

 

 

16,681,354

 

 

$

0.36

 

Exercised

 

 

(44,546

)

 

$

0.23

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

(5,318,056

)

 

$

0.38

 

Expired

 

 

(4,896,516

)

 

$

0.42

 

 

 

(1,360,606

)

 

$

0.47

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at end of year

 

 

24,080,936

 

 

$

0.33

 

 

 

20,227,948

 

 

$

0.44

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at end of year

 

 

14,284,411

 

 

$

0.24

 

 

 

13,002,821

 

 

$

0.29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.54

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.05

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

14,891

 

Weighted average grant date fair value

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.17

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

0.14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.99

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.45

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

14,891

 



F-30



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



2014


Related Party Option Grants


In November 2014, the Company granted five year options to purchase 8,794,050 shares of common stock to certain employees at an exercise price of $0.17 per share. The fair value of these options amounted to $682,986, calculated using the BSM method, and will be expensed over a two year period, 25% vesting upon signing of employee Term Sheets and the remainder vesting semi-annually during the term of two year employment, subject to continued employment with the Company.


Annual Director Grants


In July 2014, the only eligible Director declined an automatic grant of options and restricted stock.


2013


Option Grants to Directors under a Consulting Agreement


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 1,050,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.38 per share to a director who is also serving as a consultant for a one year period. The fair value of these options amounted to $135,890, calculated using the BSM method and will be expensed over the vesting period. As of December 31, 2013 the Company revalued the unvested options in accordance with ASC 505-50-30, Initial Measurement (“ASC 505-50-30). The subsequent re-measurement produced a value of $122,481 which is being amortized over the service period.


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 3,150,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.35 per share to a director of the Company who is also serving as a consultant for a three year period. The fair value of these options amounted to $482,391, calculated using the BSM method and will be expensed over the requisite service period. As of December 31, 2013 the Company revalued the unvested options in accordance with ASC 505-50-30. The subsequent re-measurement produced a value of $384,420 which is being amortized over the service period.


Annual Director Grants


In July 2013, in accordance with the Plan, the Company’s non-employee directors received an automatic grant of options for board service for the upcoming year. In connection with the automatic grants, non-employee directors were granted a total of 773,854 five-year stock options at an exercise price of $0.40 per share. Of the 773,854 five-year stock options, 325,278 will vested on December 1, 2013 and the remaining 448,576 stock options vested on June 30, 2014. The value of the options, $184,698, calculated using the BSM option pricing model was recognized as expense over the vesting periods.


Option Grant to Director of Business Development


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 157,500 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.46 per share to its Director of Business Development. The fair value of these options amounted to $24,841, calculated using the BSM method and is being expensed over the vesting period.


Related Party Option Grants


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 5,250,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.38 per share to its former Chief Executive Officer. These options were forfeited when he resigned on March 12, 2013.


On April 26, 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 6,300,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.34 per share to its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer. The fair value of the options amounted to $844,507, calculated using the BSM method. One third of the options vested April 26, 2013 and the remaining two-thirds vest in equal increments on January 1, 2014 and 2015.




F-31



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Employee Fixed Non-Plan Options


 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

 

34,633,435

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

 

46,295,435

 

 

$

0.54

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

Exercised

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

4,200,000

 

 

$

0.29

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

Expired

 

 

(5,527,435

)

 

$

0.49

 

 

 

(7,462,000

)

 

$

0.42

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at end of year

 

 

29,106,000

 

 

$

0.62

 

 

 

34,633,435

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at end of year

 

 

29,106,000

 

 

$

0.62

 

 

 

34,633,435

 

 

$

0.60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.90

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.42

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

Weighted average grant date fair value

 

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.90

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.42

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 


2014


Extension of Options in Exchange for Cash


The Company agreed to extend the term of options that expired in June 2014 and December 2014 for an additional two years, in exchange for cash of $50,000. The fair value of the extended options was determined using the BSM method and the following assumptions: volatility ranging from 56.36% to 58.28%, an expected term between 2.11 and 2.59 years, a risk-free discount rate of 0.37% and no dividends, totaling $155,437. The excess of the fair value of the extended options was recorded as additional interest expense of $105,374.


2013


Cashless Exercise


In March 2013, the Company issued 1,570,435 shares of common stock upon the cashless exercise of 4,200,000 options with an exercise price of $0.29 per share based upon market price of the Company’s common stock ranging from $0.46 to $0.50 per share.





F-32



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Non-Employee Fixed Non-Plan


 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

 

1,260,000

 

 

 

0.53

 

 

 

1,507,500

 

 

 

0.50

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(525,000

)

 

 

0.42

 

 

 

(247,500

)

 

 

0.40

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at end of year

 

 

735,000

 

 

 

0.61

 

 

 

1,260,000

 

 

 

0.53

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at end of year

 

 

735,000

 

 

 

0.61

 

 

 

1,260,000

 

 

 

0.53

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.04

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.36

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

Weighted average grant date fair value

 

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.04

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.36

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 


Warrants


The following table summarizes warrant activity for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:


 

 

For the Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

 

Shares

 

 

Price

 

Outstanding at beginning of year

 

 

16,352,598

 

 

 

0.37

 

 

 

6,367,709

 

 

 

0.50

 

Granted

 

 

27,623,590

 

 

 

0.13

 

 

 

12,764,920

 

 

 

0.35

 

Exercised

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1,065,314

)

 

 

0.16

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exchanged, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expired

 

 

(1,142,925

)

 

 

0.22

 

 

 

(1,714,717

)

 

 

0.59

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at end of year

 

 

42,833,263

 

 

 

0.16

 

 

 

16,352,598

 

 

 

0.37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable at end of year

 

 

42,833,263

 

 

 

0.16

 

 

 

16,352,598

 

 

 

0.37

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding and exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average remaining contractual term

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.10

 

Aggregate intrinsic value

 

 

 

 

 

$

284

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

180,543

 




F-33



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



A summary of the outstanding warrants previously issued for financing and services as of December 31, 2014 is presented below:


 

 

Shares

 

 

 

 

 

Warrants issued for financing

 

 

42,768,763

 

Warrants issued for services

 

 

64,500

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2014

 

 

42,833,263

 


Grants and Exercises


2014


Issuance of Warrants with Convertible Debt


In January 2014, the Company issued 1,633,328 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.35 per share in connection with $245,000 convertible notes. The fair value of the warrants amount to $265,622, calculated using the BSM method. (See Note 10).


As a result of the modification of the February 2013 convertible notes (See Note 10), the Company reduced the exercise price of warrants to acquire 984,375 shares of common stock from $0.381 to $0.30 per share. The Company also agreed to issue additional warrants to acquire 265,625 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.30 per share.


In August 2014, the holders of the February 2013 convertible notes (See Note 10), agreed to waive their right to the early partial redemption and the Company paid the holders $24,263 plus $3,500 in lawyer’s fees. In addition to the payment, the Company reduced the conversion price under the Notes and the exercise price under the 1,250,000 Warrants noted above to $0.115 per share.


In September 2014, the Company issued 17,391,304 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.115 per share in connection with a $1.0 million convertible note. The fair value of the warrants amount to $1,102,357, calculated using the BSM method. (See Note 10). In addition, the Company agreed to reduce the exercise price of 562,500 previously issued warrants to $0.115 and extend the term of the warrants to five-years from the date of the convertible note agreement. The fair value of the extended warrants totaled $28,043 and is to be amortized over the one year debt term.


In November 2014, the Company issued 8,333,333 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.12 per share in connection with $500,000 convertible notes. The fair value of the warrants amount to $947,406, calculated using the BSM method. (See Note 10). In addition, the Company agreed to reduce the exercise price of 9,999,998 previously issued warrants to $0.12.


In December 2014, the Company agreed to reduce the exercise price of 333,332 previously issued warrants to $0.12.


Extension of Warrants in Exchange for Cash


The Company agreed to extend the term of warrants that expired in June 2014 for an additional two years in exchange for cash of $10,000. The fair value of the extended options was determined using the BSM method and the following assumptions: volatility of 54.82%, an expected term of 2.07 years, a risk-free discount rate of 0.41% and no dividends, totaling $49,300. The excess of the fair value of the extended options was recorded as additional interest expense of $9,687.


2013


Issuance of Warrants with Convertible Debt


In February 2013, the Company issued 984,375 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.381 per share in connection with a $750,000 convertible note. The fair value of the warrants amounted to $265,133, calculated using the BSM method. (See Note 10).




F-34



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



In December 2013, the Company issued 11,333,338 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.35 per share in connection with $1,700,000 convertible notes. The fair value of the warrants amount to $2,087,934, calculated using the BSM method. (See Note 10).


Issuance of Warrants as Finder Fee


In February 2013, the Company issued 78,750 five-year warrants exercisable at $0.381 per share to a third party in conjunction with a financing. The fair value of the warrants amounted to $21,211, calculated using the BSM method. The warrant value and $43,533 in cash paid to a third party are recorded as a deferred asset and being amortized over the term of the note.


Issuance of Warrants for Extension of Maturity Dates on Convertible Debt


During the three months ended June 30, 2013, holders of an aggregate of $295,000 of principal agreed to extend the maturity of their notes to March 2014. As partial consideration of the extensions the Company issued warrants to purchase 368,467 shares of common stock for $0.40 per share over five years. (See Note 10)


Warrant Exercises for Cash


In January 2013, the Company issued 84,000 shares of common stock in exchange for cash of $20,000 upon the exercise of warrants with an exercise price of $0.24 per share.


In May 2013, the Company issued 718,814 shares of common stock in exchange for cash of $113,188 upon the exercise of warrants with exercise prices between $0.14 and $0.19 per share.


In December 2013, the Company issued 262,500 shares of common stock in exchange for cash of $37,500 upon the exercise of warrants with an exercise price of $0.14 per share.


18.

NONCONTROLLING INTEREST IN CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARY

 

In July 2009, the Company formed FNES and contributed the assets and liabilities of EES Inc. in exchange for a 67% ownership interest in FNES. In November FNES received $7,850,000 in exchange for a 21.5% interest in FNES. After the November transaction, the Company owns 52.6% of FNES. FNES reported a net loss of $743,417 during the period from inception, July 16, 2009 through December 31, 2009 and a net loss of $528,277 for the year ended December 31, 2010, both of which were allocated to the other FNES members in accordance with the LLC operating agreement. For fiscal 2011, FNES had net income of $3,217,407 of which the first $1,271,694 was allocated entirely to the noncontrolling interest to allow them recovery of previously allocated losses, in accordance with the LLC operating agreement, after which income was allocated to ETI and certain noncontrolling interests based on a formula stipulated in the LLC operating agreement, as amended. On a net basis, $1,690,075 of income was allocated to noncontrolling interests in fiscal 2011. During 2012, of FNES’s $3,780,472 of net income, $815,054 was allocated to noncontrolling interest. From January 1, 2013 until May 23, 2013, FNES had net income of $873,407, $187,806 of which was allocated to noncontrolling interest. On May 24, 2013, the Company sold its controlling interest in FNES eliminating any noncontrolling interest in FNES.


The following provides a summary of activity in the noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiary account for the year ended December 31, 2013:

 

Noncontrolling Interest in Subsidiary 


 

 

 

 

2013

 

Balance, beginning of year

 

 

 

$

9,423,060

 

Distributions to noncontrolling members

 

 

 

 

 

Sale of controlling interest in subsidiary

 

 

 

 

(9,235,254

)

Noncontrolling interest in income (loss)

 

 

 

 

(187,806

)

Balance, end of year

 

 

 

$

 




F-35



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



In October 2013, the Company’s subsidiary, Ecosphere Mining, LLC, granted to its directors an aggregate of 5% ownership in Ecosphere Mining, LLC. Accordingly the Company is presenting noncontrolling interests as a component of equity on its consolidated balance sheets and reported noncontrolling interest net income or loss under the heading “Net (income) loss applicable to noncontrolling interest in consolidated subsidiary” in the consolidated statements of operations.


 

 

 

 

2014

 

Balance, beginning of year

 

 

 

$

 

Distributions to noncontrolling members

 

 

 

 

 

Noncontrolling interest in income (loss)

 

 

 

 

(13,117

)

Balance, end of year

 

 

 

$

(13,117

)


19.

INCOME TAXES

 

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. At December 31, 2014, the Company has a Net Operating Loss (“NOL”) carryforward of approximately $78,000,000. The NOL expires during the years 2014 to 2034. In the event that a significant change in ownership of the Company occurs as a result of the Company’s issuance of common stock, the utilization of the NOL carryforward will be subject to limitation under certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. Management does not presently believe that such a change has occurred. Realization of any portion of the $36,410,614 of net deferred tax assets at December 31, 2014 is not considered more likely than not by management; accordingly, a valuation allowance has been established for the full amount. The valuation allowance as of December 31, 2014 was $28,759,422. The change in the valuation allowance during the year ended December 31, 2014 amounted to $4,312,984.

 

Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets are as follows:


 

 

Year ended

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Deferred tax assets:

  

 

 

 

 

  

Organizational costs, accrued liabilities and other

 

$

830,936

 

 

$

559,373

 

NOL carryforwards

 

 

29,330,106

 

 

 

25,588,695

 

Depreciation

 

 

148,870

 

 

 

106,118

 

Compensation related to equity instruments issued for services

 

 

6,100,701

 

 

 

5,843,443

 

Valuation allowance

 

 

(28,759,422

)

 

 

(24,446,438

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets

 

$

7,651,191

 

 

$

7,651,191

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment in unconsolidated investee

 

 

(7,619,174

)

 

 

(7,619,174

)

Other

 

 

(32,017

)

 

 

(32,017

)

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

 

(7,651,191

)

 

 

(7,651,191

)

Total net deferred taxes

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

Reconciliation of the differences between income tax benefit computed at the federal and state statutory tax rates and the provision for income tax benefit for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 is as follows:


 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

    

Income tax expense (benefit) at federal statutory rate

 

 

(34.00

%)

 

 

34.00

%

State taxes, net of federal benefit

 

 

(3.62

)

 

 

3.67

 

Nondeductible items

 

 

0.10

 

 

 

0.39

 

Change in valuation allowance

 

 

37.52

 

 

 

(38.06

)

 

 

 

%

 

 

%




F-36



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



20.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Leases


The Company makes monthly rent payments of $16,744 under a month-to-month agreement for the Company’s Stuart, Florida corporate offices, manufacturing location and machine shop buildings. During the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 the Company recognized rent expense amount of $200,928 and $200,928 for all four buildings in Stuart, FL.


In September 2013, the Company entered into a five year lease agreement for an office located in Park City, UT to begin developing the mining application. The commencement date for this operating lease is January 1, 2014 with an initial monthly rent of approximately $3,600 (subject to escalation) with the lease expiring on the day immediately prior to the fifth anniversary of the commencement date, December 31, 2018. The Company has an obligation of $184,837 as of December 31, 2014, relating to this five-year lease agreement.


Future minimum annual rents due under operating leases are as follows:


 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amounts due under operating leases in 2015

 

 

 

 

 

$

44,178

 

Amounts due under operating leases in 2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

45,503

 

Amounts due under operating leases in 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

46,872

 

Amounts due under operating leases in 2018

 

 

 

 

 

 

48,284

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

184,837

 


Legal


From time to time, we may be involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business.


To our knowledge, except as described below, no legal proceedings, government actions, administrative actions, investigations or claims are currently pending against us or involve us that, in the opinion of our management, could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

 

In December 2012, the Company reached a settlement with KIA, who filed a lawsuit against the Company in 2007, amounting to $100,000 to be paid with an initial $25,000 payment and 36 monthly installments for the remainder of the settlement amount. Should the Company default on any of its required payments, the settlement amount will increase to $150,000. The Company had originally accrued $197,500 in liabilities related to this settlement. As a result of the settlement, the Company reduced legal expense by $47,500 (as the original expense was charged to this account) leaving an accrued balance of $125,000 at December 31, 2012, which was comprised of the $150,000 obligation less the initial $25,000 payment. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had an accrued balance of $79,167 which is comprised of the $150,000 obligation less $70,833 in payments. Upon final payment in accordance with the settlement, the Company will record a $50,000 gain. See Note 9.

 

In March 2011, a former vendor obtained a judgment against the Company for a number of disputed billings. As of December 31, 2014 the Company has accrued $70,000 which is anticipated to be the amount of payment due to the vendor plus attorney’s fees. See Note 9.




F-37



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Other Commitments


The Company has a Royalty Agreement with its president and founder where he is entitled to receive royalties equal to 4% of Ecosphere’s revenues generated from the patents and inventions which were created by him (the “Inventions”) less any base salary paid to him. In addition to the royalties paid on revenues, the royalties will also be paid on any consideration Ecosphere receives or its shareholders receive from a merger or sale of our assets outside of the ordinary course of business relating to the Inventions plus consideration received by our shareholders from exchange offer or tender offer, as well as proceeds received by Ecosphere from outstanding debt conversions (for all new debt issued beginning January 1, 2013) and sales of Ecosphere’s equity securities. Royalty payments will be paid for the life of all Inventions regardless of whether Mr. McGuire remains an employee of Ecosphere. Under the Royalty Agreement, Ecosphere granted Mr. McGuire a security interest (subordinated to all creditors and shareholders) in all of the Inventions and all revenues generated from the Inventions to secure payments owed to him under the Royalty Agreement. Provided that Ecosphere is not in default of the Royalty Agreement, Mr. McGuire will assign his rights to any technology invented by him during the term of his Employment Agreement. His amended Royalty Agreement provides that the Company will be in default for non-payment only if it has the liquidity to pay Mr. McGuire or if it defrauds him regarding its ability to pay him.


21.

CONCENTRATION OF RISK

 

During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company’s revenues were 50% and 47% from customers A and B, respectively. Customer A is a related party in the oil and gas industry and Customer B is in the food and beverage industry, and were from two revenue sources. Of the two revenue sources, 94% related to the sale of Ozonix® equipment and 4% related to aftermarket parts for Ozonix® equipment in the field. As of December 31, 2014, 96% of accounts receivable were from Customer A, respectively.


During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company’s revenues were 73%, 14% and 9% from customers A, B and C, respectively, in the oil and gas industry, and were from three revenue sources. Of the three revenue sources, 73% related to the sale of Ozonix® equipment and field services offered in the domestic oil and gas industry, 14% related to mobile, Ozonix® water recycling services provided during hydraulic fracturing operations and the remaining 9% related to onsite, Ozonix® water recycling services provided for the treatment of flowback and produced waters. As of December 31, 2013, 100% of accounts receivable were from customer A, respectively.


The Company maintains its cash in bank and financial institution deposits that at times may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts through December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, the Company’s bank balances did not exceeded FDIC insured amounts. 


22.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS


2014 Related Party Transactions


Related Party Private Licensing Engagement Agreement


In June 2014, the Company entered into a one year Private Licensing Engagement Agreement (the “Agreement”) with ICAP Patent Brokerage LLC (“ICAP”) in efforts to monetize the Company’s patented Ozonix® and Ecos PowerCube® technology portfolios. The Agreement may be terminated by either party with 60 days’ notice. In the event that the Company enters into an Intellectual Property Licensing Agreement, ICAP is entitled to receive a commission equal to 10% of the monies paid to the Company and its affiliates in connection with such transaction. The Chief Executive Officer of ICAP Patent Brokerage is also one of the Company’s board members and consultants. The Company paid $50,000 related to the January 2015 licensing agreement discussed in Note 23.


Related Party Consulting Agreements


In January 2013, the Company entered into a three year consulting agreement at the rate of $250,000 per year that may be terminated with 30 days’ notice with one of the Company’s board members and who is also the Chief Executive Officer of ICAP Patent Brokerage. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company has incurred $250,000 pursuant to the consulting agreement.




F-38



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



Related Party Option Grants


In November 2014, the Company granted five year options to purchase 8,794,050 shares of common stock to certain employees at an exercise price of $0.17 per share. The fair value of these options amounted to $682,986, calculated using the BSM method, and will be expensed over a two year period, 25% vesting upon signing of employee Term Sheets and the remainder vesting semi-annually during the term of two year employment, subject to continued employment with the Company.


Related Party Cashless Option Exercise


In February 2014, the Company issued 8,753 shares of common stock to a director upon the cashless exercise of options to purchase 44,546 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.229 per share and based upon a market price of the Company’s common stock of $0.285 per share.


Related Party Equipment Sales


In January 2014, FNES sold one Ozonix® EF10M to Hydrosphere Energy Solutions that was purchased by FNES from the Company in 2013. The sale to Hydrosphere resulted in equipment sales of approximately $0.1 million to the Company.


In October 2014, FNES sold its second Ozonix® EF10M to Hydrosphere Energy Solutions that was purchased by FNES from the Company in 2014. The sale resulted in equipment sales of approximately $0.4 million to the Company.


Related Party Service Fee


The Company has been receiving a service fee for its continued accounting, executive, administrative and other miscellaneous services to FNES. In April 2014, the monthly service fee was reduced from $56,360 to $44,310. The Company continues to provide the services described above and will continue to do so in a transitional phase. Once this transitional phase is complete and FNES has taken over all functions listed above, FNES will no longer pay a service fee to the Company. All costs relating to the services fee are offset against various expense accounts on the statement of operations. The Company had an accounts receivable balance at December 31, 2014 of $44,310 relating to December 2014 services performed for FNES.


Related Party Accounts Receivable


At December 31, 2013, the Company had an accounts receivable balance of approximately $3.5 million due from FNES. The $3.5 million accounts receivable balance primarily consisted of the $3.5 million remaining balance FNES owed on two Ozonix® EF80 units purchased in July and November 2013. In March 2014, Ecosphere sold the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in July 2013 in exchange for $1 million in cash. The buyer of the note is an FNES member and director. The Company also sold 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million in cash during the three months ended March 31, 2014. During the three months ended June 30, 2014, the Company sold the remaining 50% of the FNES note payable for the Unit sold in November 2013 in exchange for $0.6 million. The buyer of 50% of the $0.6 million note receivable sold in June 2014 is an employee of the Company. As of December 31, 2014, the Company had no accounts receivable balance in connection with the notes payable for the Ozonix® EF80 units sold to FNES in July and November 2013.


As a result of the sale of accounts receivable the Company recognized a loss of $985,085 for the nine months ended December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, the Company had an accounts receivable balance of $52,740 due from FNES. The accounts receivable balance consisted of a $44,310 service fee and $8,430 in miscellaneous charges.


2013 Related Party Transactions


Related Party Option Grants


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 5,250,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.381 per share to its former Chief Executive Officer. These options were forfeited when he resigned on March 12, 2013. (See Note 17)




F-39



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



On April 26, 2013, the Company’s prior grant of five-year options to purchase 6,300,000 shares of common stock with an exercise price of $0.34 per share to its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer became effective. The fair value of the options amounted to $844,507, calculated using the BSM method. One third of the options vested April 26, 2013 and the remaining two-thirds vest in equal increments on January 1, 2014 and 2015. (See Note 17)


In January 2013, the Company granted five-year options to purchase 4,200,000 shares of common stock with exercise prices between $0.38 and $0.35 per share to two directors who also serve as consultants. (See Note 17)


Related Party Consulting Agreements


In January 2013, the Company entered into a one-year consulting agreement with one of the Company’s board members. As of December 31, 2013 the Company has paid $252,083 pursuant to the consulting agreement. This consulting agreement expired December 31, 2013.


In January 2013, the Company entered into a three year consulting agreement that may be terminated with 30 days’ notice with one of the Company’s board members. As of December 31, 2013 the Company has paid $250,000 pursuant to the consulting agreement.


Related Party Equipment Sales


In July 2013, FNES purchased Ozonix® EF80 unit 14 from the Company, pursuant to which FNES paid the Company $500,000 and agreed to pay 36 monthly payments of approximately $52,778 beginning in August 2013. As of December 31, 2013, FNES owes the Company approximately $1.53 million relating to this arrangement. See Note 5 for 2014 subsequent Note sales.


In November 2013, FNES purchased one Ozonix® EF80 unit 13 from the Company, pursuant to which FNES paid the Company $250,000 and agreed to pay 36 monthly payments of approximately $59,722 beginning in December 2013. As of December 31, 2013, FNES owes the Company approximately $1.94 million relating to this arrangement. See Note 5 for 2014 subsequent sales of Notes Receivable.


Related Party Service Fee


The Company has been receiving a service fee for its continued accounting, administrative and other miscellaneous services to FNES. FNES has agreed to pay the $56,360 a month for the Company’s services and will continue to do so in a transitional phase. Once this transitional phase is complete and FNES has taken over all functions listed above, FNES will no longer pay $56,360 as a service fee to the Company. All costs relating to the service fee are offset against various expense accounts on the statement of operations.


Related Party Accounts Receivable


At December 31, 2013, the Company had an accounts receivable balance of approximately $3.5 million due from FNES. The $3.5 million accounts receivable balance primarily consisted of the $3.5 million remaining balance FNES owes on two Ozonix® EF80 units purchased in July and November 2013. (See Note 5)


23.

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS


Convertible Note Issuances


In February 2015, the Company amended previously issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $1,000,000. The Company increased the aggregate principal amount to $1,250,000 for the additional cash loan. The note continues to accrue interest at an annual rate of 10%, matures in September 2015 and is convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.115 per share. In connection with the additional issuance of the note, the Company issued to the investor five-year warrants to purchase 4,347,826 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.115 per share.


In March 2015, the Company issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $250,000. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 10%, matures in September 2015 and is convertible into common stock at a conversion rate of $0.115 per share. In connection with the issuance of the note, the Company issued to the investor five-year warrants to purchase 4,347,826 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.115 per share.



F-40



ECOSPHERE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014 AND 2013



On April 14, 2015, the Company and Sea of Green Systems, Inc. borrowed $100,000 from an investment fund (the “Fund’). In exchange the Company issued the Fund a $100,000 12.5% convertible note due in six-months which note shall be convertible either into common stock of a publicly held entity which acquires SOG or the Company.


Convertible Note Extensions and Amendments


In January 2015, the Company amended previously issued convertible notes in the aggregate principal amount of $395,000, reducing the conversion rate from $0.30 per share to $0.12 per share.


In March 2015, two convertible note holders agreed to extend an aggregate principal amount of $245,000 for an additional one year and one convertible note holder agreed to extend an aggregate principal amount of $50,000 for an additional six months in exchange for a reduction in the conversion rate and warrant exercise price from $0.42 per share to $0.12 per share.


In March 2015, two convertible note holders agreed to extend an aggregate principal amount of $645,000 for an additional six months. The Company agreed to pay the holders an extension fee equal to an aggregate of $50,000 that shall be payable in either cash or 434,782 shares of common stock. The Company also issued the note holders five-year warrants to purchase 312,500 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $0.115 per share.


Stock Issuance


In March 2015, the Company elected to pay two convertible holders in shares of common stock in lieu of cash, described above under “Convertible Note Extensions and Amendments.” The Company issued the two holders a total of 434,782 shares of common stock.


Option Grant


In January 2015, the Company granted one of its Board members 666,667 non-qualified stock options, exercisable over a five-year period at $0.12 per share, vesting one year after the grant date, subject to continued service as a Director. The Director previously declined an automatic grant of options and restricted stock in July 2014.


Licensing Agreement


In January 2015, the Company signed an exclusive technology licensing agreement with US H2O, Inc., to deploy its patented Ozonix® water treatment technology on an exclusive basis in the United States for the Landfill Leachate and Marine Port & Terminal fields-of-use.


Equipment Purchase Order


In March 2015, the Company received a purchase order from a Company in Malaysia in the industrial wastewater sector for one Ozonix® EF10M and corresponding spare parts. The Company received a deposit of approximately $0.3 million and the manufacturing has commenced as of the date of this filing.  


Related Party Note Payable


In January 2015, the Company issued a promissory note in the aggregate principal amount of $50,000. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 10%, matures in April 2015.


Consulting Agreement


In February 2015, the Company entered into a consulting arrangement for a term of 180 days expiring in August 2015 to advise the Company on strategic opportunities regarding the Ecos GrowCube™. In consideration for the services, the Company issued the consultant 6 million contingently issuable shares of common stock, which is subject to issuance upon meeting certain milestones. The shares will vest if the Company has (a) entered into a reverse merger with a public reporting company which has a cash balance of at least $1.5 million or (b) closed a financing in which a broker-dealer acted as placement agent for the minimum offering which provides the Company with at least $2.0 million. However, if the milestones are not met, the Company shall have the right to redeem the shares and the Company must pay the Consultant $20,000 in cash.






F-41





INDEX TO FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

F-43

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statements of Financial Condition as of December 31, 2014 and 2013

 

 

F-44

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statements of Operations and Changes in Members’ Equity for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period from May 24, 2013 to December 31, 2013

 

 

F-45

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period from May 24, 2013 to December 31, 2013

 

 

F-46

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes to Financial Statements

 

 

F-47

 

 

 



F-42





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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


To the Board of Directors and Members of:

Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC


We have audited the accompanying statements of financial condition of Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the related statement of operations and changes in members' equity, and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period from May 24, 2013 to December 31, 2013. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.


We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.


In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 and for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period from May 24, 2013 to December 31, 2013, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.


The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the Company reported a net loss of $5,500,377 and cash used in operating activities of $1,021,206 for the year ended December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, the Company had a working capital deficit of $1,809,329. These matters raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s plans as to these matters are also described in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.


/s/ Salberg & Company, P.A.



SALBERG & COMPANY, P.A.

Boca Raton, Florida

April 15, 2015









2295 NW Corporate Blvd., Suite 240 • Boca Raton, FL 33431-7328

Phone: (561) 995-8270 • Toll Free: (866) CPA-8500 • Fax: (561) 995-1920

www.salbergco.com • info@salbergco.com

Member National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts • Registered with the PCAOB

Member CPAConnect with Affiliated Offices Worldwide • Member AICPA Center for Audit Quality



F-43





FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

196,115

 

 

$

1,462,397

 

Accounts receivable

 

 

316,945

 

 

 

431,978

 

Inventory, net

 

 

108,696

 

 

 

474,261

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

 

21,523

 

 

 

1,984

 

Total current assets

 

 

643,279

 

 

 

2,370,620

 

Property and equipment, net

 

 

3,897,742

 

 

 

6,702,562

 

Intangible assets, net

 

 

1,736,111

 

 

 

1,875,000

 

Slow moving inventory, net

 

 

24,864

 

 

 

 

Deposits

 

 

8,200

 

 

 

4,200

 

Total assets

 

$

6,310,196

 

 

$

10,952,382

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Members' Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

 

$

188,162

 

 

$

196,933

 

Current portion of financing obligations—related party

 

 

2,264,446

 

 

 

1,202,304

 

Current portion of financing obligations

 

 

 

 

 

8,400

 

Total current liabilities

 

 

2,452,608

 

 

 

1,407,637

 

Financing obligations, net of current portion—related party

 

 

1,003,960

 

 

 

2,268,405

 

Financing obligations, net of current portion

 

 

 

 

 

742

 

Total liabilities

 

 

3,456,568

 

 

 

3,676,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and Contingencies (Note 8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members' equity

 

 

2,853,628

 

 

 

7,275,598

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and members' equity

 

$

6,310,196

 

 

$

10,952,382

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.




F-44





FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

 STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND CHANGES IN MEMBER’S EQUITY


 

 

Year ended

December 31,

2014

 

 

May 24, 2013

through

December 31,

2013

 

Revenues

 

 

 

 

 

 

Field services

 

$

2,121,998

 

 

$

3,655,918

 

Equipment sales and royalties

 

 

1,069,126

 

 

 

 

Aftermarket part sales

 

 

38,233

 

 

 

133,804

 

Total revenues

 

 

3,229,357

 

 

 

3,789,722

 

Cost of sales

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Field services costs (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

1,516,360

 

 

 

1,423,449

 

Equipment sales and royalties (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

780,277

 

 

 

 

Aftermarket part costs – related party (exclusive of depreciation shown below)

 

 

20,387

 

 

 

127,562

 

Total cost of sales

 

 

2,317,024

 

 

 

1,551,011

 

Gross profit

 

 

912,333

 

 

 

2,238,711

 

Costs and expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

2,977,340

 

 

 

1,718,331

 

Personnel (includes stock-based compensation of $1,078,407 and $1,432,598 for 2014 and 2013, respectively)

 

 

2,129,525

 

 

 

1,838,664

 

Professional fees

 

 

246,901

 

 

 

190,234

 

Occupancy

 

 

203,280

 

 

 

136,429

 

Travel

 

 

248,971

 

 

 

128,881

 

Insurance

 

 

200,976

 

 

 

118,929

 

Marketing

 

 

100,417

 

 

 

62,275

 

Other general and administrative

 

 

153,013

 

 

 

90,833

 

Total costs and expenses

 

 

6,260,423

 

 

 

4,284,576

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loss from operations

 

 

(5,348,090

)

 

 

(2,045,865

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

 

(177,287

)

 

 

(44,302

)

Other income

 

 

25,000

 

 

 

 

Total other expense, net

 

 

(152,287

)

 

 

(44,302

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(5,500,377

)

 

$

(2,090,167

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members' equity – beginning of period

 

 

7,275,598

 

 

 

7,933,167

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity-based compensation

 

 

1,078,407

 

 

 

1,432,598

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members' equity – end of year

 

$

2,853,628

 

 

$

7,275,598

 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.




F-45





FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

 STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS


 

 

For the

year ended

December 31,

2014

 

 

May 24, 2013

through

December 31,

2013

 

 

  

                        

  

  

                        

  

OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

$

(5,500,377

)

 

$

(2,090,167

)

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

 

2,977,340

 

 

 

1,718,331

 

Equity-based compensation

 

 

1,078,407

 

 

 

1,432,598

 

Write down of inventory

 

 

106,379

 

 

 

 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in accounts receivable

 

 

115,033

 

 

 

40,972

 

(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses

 

 

(19,539

)

 

 

24,771

 

Decrease (increase) in inventory

 

 

234,322

 

 

 

(238,508

)

Increase in deposits

 

 

(4,000

)

 

 

(11,600

)

Decrease in accrued liabilities

 

 

(21,491

)

 

 

 

Increase in accounts payable

 

 

12,720

 

 

 

37,938

 

Net cash used in operating activities

 

 

(1,021,206

)

 

 

914,335

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from advances to Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

1,385,139

 

Purchases of property and equipment

 

 

(33,630

)

 

 

(799,117

)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

 

(33,630

)

 

 

586,022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of notes payable – related party

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

 

Repayments of vehicle financing

 

 

(9,142

)

 

 

(5,472

)

Repayment of notes payable - related party

 

 

(1,202,304

)

 

 

(280,124

)

Net cash used in financing activities

 

 

(211,446

)

 

 

(285,596

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (decrease) increase in cash

 

 

(1,266,282

)

 

 

1,214,761

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash at beginning of period

 

 

1,462,397

 

 

 

247,636

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash at end of year

 

$

196,115

 

 

$

1,462,397

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid of interest

 

$

177,287

 

 

$

44,302

 

Cash paid for income taxes

 

$

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE OF NON CASH INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reclassification of slow moving inventory

 

$

24,864

 

 

$

 

Purchase of equipment with the issuance of notes payable

 

$

 

 

$

3,750,833

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.





F-46



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION


Description of the Business


Fidelity National Environmental Solutions, LLC (the “Company” or “FNES”) has been deploying Ecosphere Technologies, Inc.’s (“ETI”) patented Ozonix® technology in the North American energy market since 2009. FNES is now the leading water treatment provider to the energy services sector and currently provides non-chemical water recycling technologies and services to energy companies operating in the oil and natural gas industry. FNES has enabled oil and gas customers to treat, recycle and reuse over 5 billion gallons of water on more than 1,200 oil and natural gas wells in major shale plays around the United States with its diversified Ecos-Frac® line of Ozonix® products.


The Company has been granted an exclusive global “field-of-use” license to Ecosphere’s patented Ozonix® technology for the global energy market including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and gas exploration and production, enhanced oil recovery, power generation, coal-fired power plants and refineries. Since 2009, FNES has been providing energy exploration and production companies with mobile, high-volume, chemical-free water treatment equipment to treat and recycle flowback and produced waters during hydraulic fracturing operations.


The Company was organized in the state of Delaware on July 13, 2009.


Since the inception date of July 13, 2009 through May 23, 2013, the Company was a majority-owned subsidiary of Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. (“ETI”), and its accounts were included in the consolidated financial statements of ETI. On May 24, 2013, ETI sold a 12% interest in FNES to an existing member, Fidelity National Financial (“FNF”), resulting in ETI no longer holding a controlling interest in the Company. Accordingly, since May 24, 2013, the accounts of the Company are no longer included in the consolidated financial statements of ETI.  In July 2013, ETI sold an additional 8% interest in the Company to FNF.


Basis of Presentation


The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) in the U.S. as promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”). The financial statements presented in this report are from the Period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013 which is the period FNES began being accounting for under the equity method by ETI as noted above and for the year ended December 31, 2014. In accordance with Regulation S-X 3-09 these financial statements of FNES should only depict the period of the fiscal year in which it was accounted for by the equity method.


Going Concern


As reflected in the accompanying financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, the Company had a net loss of $5,500,377 and $2,090,167. For the year ended December 31, 2014 the Company had cash used in operations of $1,021,206 and for the period May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, the Company had cash provided by operations of $914,335. Additionally, at December 31, 2014, the Company had a working capital deficit of $1,809,329. These factors raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.


The Company plans to pursue debt funding to further operating capital and working capital later in the fiscal year. Further, the Company is always pursuing sales and licensing transactions for its multi-patented technologies that may provide additional revenues and operating profits. All such actions and funds, if successful, may or may not be sufficient to cover monthly operating expenses as well as meet minimum payments with respect to the Company’s liabilities over the next twelve months in addition to providing additional working capital.


The financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of recorded asset amounts or the amounts and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.





F-47



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



2.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Use of Estimates


The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates in the accompanying financial statements include the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, valuation of inventory, estimates of depreciable lives and valuation of property and equipment, estimates of amortization periods for intangible assets, and valuation of equity based instruments issued for other than cash.


Cash Equivalents


The Company considers all highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents.


Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts


Accounts receivable are stated at their estimated net realizable value. The Company reviews its accounts to estimate losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. Any required allowance is based on specific analysis of past due accounts and also considers historical trends of write-offs. Past due status is based on how recently payments have been received from customers. The Company’s collection experience has been favorable reflecting a limited number of customers, all of which are in the oil and gas industry. No allowance was deemed necessary at December 31, 2014 and 2013.


Inventory


Inventory is primarily comprised of replacement parts for sale to licensed operators and use in equipment utilizing the Ozonix® technology. Inventory on hand at the balance sheet date is stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined using a weighted average methodology. At December 31, 2014 the Company identified and moved $49,728 of refurbished or used parts to slow moving inventory and further wrote down those parts to $24,864.  Additionally, the Company reserved $106,379 of obsolete parts. Going forward, the Company will expense all parts that have a unit price under $5.00 when purchased and any used or refurbished parts held in the Company’s inventory will be written down by 50% of original costs basis.


Property and Equipment


Property and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives generally ranging from three to seven years. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are expensed as incurred.


Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

The Company accounts for long-lived assets in accordance with the provisions of ASC 360-10, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. This statement requires that long-lived assets and certain identifiable intangibles be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value, less costs to sell.


Intangible Assets


The Company’s intangible assets consist of licensed rights to ETI’s patented Ozonix® technology for the global energy market including, but not limited to, onshore and offshore oil and gas exploration and production, enhanced oil recovery, power generation, coal-fired power plants and refineries. The Company acquired the license in 2009 for cash consideration of $2,500,000 and amortized over 18 years which is the remaining term of the patent using the straight-line method. As of December 31, 2014, the net carrying value of the licensed rights, net of accumulated amortization of $763,889 was $1,736,111, which will be amortized in annual increments of $138,889 through June 2027. Amortization expense totaled $84,006 for the period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2013, the net carrying value of the licensed rights, net of accumulated amortization of $625,000 was $1,875,000.




F-48



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



Fair Value of Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements

 

The Company measures its financial and non-financial assets and liabilities, as well as makes related disclosures, in accordance with ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (“ASC Topic 820”). For certain of our financial instruments, including cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, the carrying amounts approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Amounts recorded for notes payable, net of discount, also approximate fair value because current interest rates available to the Company for debt with similar terms and maturities are substantially the same.


ASC Topic 820 provides guidance with respect to valuation techniques to be utilized in the determination of fair value of assets and liabilities. Approaches include, (i) the market approach (comparable market prices), (ii) the income approach (present value of future income or cash flow), and (iii) the cost approach (cost to replace the service capacity of an asset or replacement cost). ASC Topic 820 utilizes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value into three broad levels. The following is a brief description of those three levels:


Level 1:

Observable inputs such as quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2:

Inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, either directly or indirectly. These include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets and quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active.

Level 3:

Unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore developed using estimates and assumptions developed by us, which reflect those that a market participant would use.


The Company used Level 3 inputs to estimate the fair value of equity-based compensation granted during the year ended December 31, 2013 which is being expensed over the vesting period of the grant.


Revenue Recognition

 

For each of our revenue sources we have the following policies:


Field Services


Revenue from water treatment contracts is earned based upon the volume of water processed plus additional period based contractual charges and is recognized in the period the service is provided. Payments received in advance of the performance of services or of the delivery of goods are deferred as liabilities until the services are performed or the goods are delivered.

 

Some projects the Company undertakes are based upon our providing water processing services for fixed periods of time. Revenue from these projects is recognized based upon the number of days the service has been provided during the reporting period.


After Market Part Sales


The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of aftermarket parts to customers who have purchased the Company’s equipment during the period in which the parts are delivered to the buyer.


Royalties


Revenue from technology license royalties will be recorded as the royalties are earned. No royalty revenue has been earned to date.


The Company includes shipping and handling fees billed to customers in revenues, and shipping and handling costs in cost of revenues.


Advertising

 

The Company conducts advertising for the promotion of its products and services. In accordance with ASC 720-35, Advertising Costs, are charged to operations when incurred and totaled $100,417 and $62,275 for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, respectively.

 



F-49



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



Equity-based Compensation


Compensation expense for all equity-based employee and director compensation awards granted is based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation (“ASC Topic 718”). The Company recognizes these compensation costs on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, which is generally the option vesting term. None of the Company’s awards to date were subject to vesting requirements. Accordingly, the grant-date fair value of these awards has been recognized as compensation expense on the grant date.

The Company has estimated the fair value of equity-based compensation based on recent transactions involving the Company’s equity interests for cash consideration.


Income Taxes


The Company is treated as a partnership for federal and state income tax purposes. Accordingly, the Company is not obligated to pay income taxes on its taxable income; rather its members are responsible for their respective portions of taxable income or losses.


New Accounting Standards


Management does not believe that any recently issued, but not yet effective accounting standards, if currently adopted, would have a material effect on the financial statements.


3.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

 

As of December 31, 2014 accounts receivable in the amount of $316,945 consisted of amounts due from four customers. As of December 31, 2013 accounts receivable in the amount of $431,978 consisted of amounts due from one customer, for providing EcosFrac® services to treat water without the use of chemicals prior to fracturing natural gas wells. See Note 9.


4.

INVENTORY


Inventory consists of the following:


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Raw materials

 

$

108,696

 

 

$

224,261

 

Finished goods

 

 

 

 

 

250,000

 

Total

 

$

108,696

 

 

$

474,261

 


At December 31, 2014 the Company identified and moved $49,728 of refurbished or used parts to slow moving inventory and further wrote down those parts to $24,864.  Additionally, the Company reserved $106,379 of obsolete parts.


5.

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

Property and equipment as of December 31 2014 and 2013, consists of the following:


 

 

Estimated Useful Lives

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

in Years

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Machinery and equipment

 

5

 

 

$

17,056,405

 

 

$

17,026,374

 

Furniture and fixtures

 

5 to 7

 

 

 

30,812

 

 

 

27,212

 

Automobiles and trucks

 

3 to 5

 

 

 

171,798

 

 

 

171,798

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17,259,015

 

 

 

17,225,384

 

Less total accumulated depreciation

 

 

 

 

 

(13,361,273

)

 

 

(10,522,822

)

Property and equipment, net

 

 

 

 

$

3,897,742

 

 

$

6,702,562

 


Depreciation expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013 amounted to $2,838,451 and $1,634,325, respectively.



F-50



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



6.

FINANCING OBLIGATIONS

Financing obligations consisted of the following as of December 31, 2014 and 2013:


 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2014

 

 

2013

 

Secured equipment note payable issued in 2013 as partial consideration for the purchase of equipment from ETI, payable in monthly installments of $52,778 through July 2016. The note is non-interest bearing and carried at the present value of future payments using an implied annual interest rate of 5.05%. See Note 11.

 

$

961,793

 

 

$

1,530,869

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured equipment note payable issued in 2013 as partial consideration for the purchase of equipment from ETI, payable in monthly installments of $59,722 through November 2016. The note is non-interest bearing and carried at the present value of future payments using an implied annual interest rate of 5.05%. See Note 11.

 

 

1,306,613

 

 

 

1,939,840

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured note payable issued in October 2014, maturing in September 2015 subsequently extended to December 2015. See Note 11. The note accrues interest at an annual interest rate of 12% and the Company began making quarterly interest payments on December 30, 2014.

 

 

1,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured vehicle notes payable in monthly installments totaling $877 over 60 months accruing interest at an annual rate of 8.9%.

 

 

 

 

 

9,142

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

3,268,406

 

 

 

3,479,851

 

Less Current Portion

 

 

(2,264,446

)

 

 

(1,210,704

)

Financing obligations, long-term portion

 

$

1,003,960

 

 

$

2,269,147

 


Aggregate annual maturities of debt are as follows as of December 31, 2014:


For the year ended December 31,

 

Amount

 

2015

 

$

2,264,446

 

2016

 

 

1,003,960

 

Total

 

$

3,268,406

 

 

7.

MEMBERS’ EQUITY

 

The Company has one class of membership unit and is authorized to issue an aggregate of 1,000,000 units. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were 127,393 units outstanding. Each member has rights, obligations and other features provided to Members generally.

 

Equity Based Compensation


In July 2013, the Company granted certain members of its board of directors and management options to acquire 10% of membership interests for aggregate consideration of $20,000,000 over a term of 5 years. The options provide for a cashless exercise feature in the event of a change of control. The grant-date fair value of the options, totaling $2,819,619, was estimated using the Black-Scholes Method and the following assumptions: expected term – 7 years; volatility – 94.63%, risk free rate – 2.27%, expected dividends – 0%. One third of the options vested immediately on August 23, 2013 and the remaining two thirds vest on August 23, 2014 and 2015. The Company recognized $1,078,407 and $1,432,598 of compensation expense related to these options for the year ended December 31, 2014 and for the period May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, respectively.


8.

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Legal

 

From time to time, we may be involved in litigation relating to claims arising out of our operations in the normal course of business.

 

To our knowledge, no legal proceedings, government actions, administrative actions, investigations or claims are currently pending against us or involve us that, in the opinion of our management, could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.



F-51



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



9.

CONCENTRATION OF RISK

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, 49% and 39% of the Company’s revenues were from customers A and B, respectively, in the oil and gas industry. Of the two revenue sources, 66% related to mobile, Ozonix® water recycling services provided during hydraulic fracturing operations and 33% related to the sale of Ozonix® water treatment equipment. As of December 31, 2014, approximately 11% of accounts receivable was from customer B, 19% from Customer C, 21% from Customer D and 49% from Customer E. Customer A is no longer a customer of FNES as of December 31, 2014.


For the period from May 23, 2013 through December 31, 2013, 77%, 20% and 3% of the Company’s revenues were from customers A, B and C, respectively, in the oil and gas industry. Of the three revenue sources, 77% related to mobile, Ozonix® water recycling services provided during hydraulic fracturing operations, 20% related to onsite, Ozonix® water recycling services provided for the treatment of flowback and produced waters and the remaining 3% related to the sale of aftermarket parts used in Ozonix® water treatment equipment. As of December 31, 2013, approximately 100% of accounts receivable was from customer A.


The Company maintains its cash in bank and financial institution deposits that at times may exceed federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts through December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2014, the Company’s bank balances do not exceeded FDIC insured amounts. 


10.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS


In 2013, the Company acquired equipment from ETI, a 30.6% member of the Company, for aggregate consideration of $4.8 million, of which $750,000 was paid upon delivery of the equipment, and remaining $4,050,000 balance is payable in monthly installments of $112,500, comprised of principal plus implied interest with an annual rate of 5.05%. The present value of the remaining payments is $2,268,406 which is included in financing obligations on the accompanying balance sheet. (See Note 6)


In January 2014, the Company sold one Ozonix® EF10M unit to Hydrosphere Energy Solutions, LLC, the Company’s Canadian licensee, that was previously acquired from ETI in 2013. The Company made a payment to ETI in the amount of $107,925 for 50% of the adjusted gross profit.


In October 2014, the Company issued a note payable in the aggregate principal amount of $1.0 million to three of the Company’s Board members. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 12% and the Company began making quarterly interest payments on December 30, 2014. The note matures in September 2015. (See Note 11)


In October 2014, the Company purchased equipment from ETI for $416,600, which was then sold to FNES’ Canadian licensee, Hydrosphere Energy Solutions, LLC.


The Company pays ETI a service fee for its continued accounting, executive, administrative and other miscellaneous services. In April 2014, the monthly service fee was reduced from $56,360 to $44,310. All costs relating to the service fee are charged to various expense accounts on the statement of operations. The Company had an accounts payable balance at December 31, 2014 of $44,310 relating to December 2014 services performed by ETI.


The Company has an accounts payable balance as of December 31, 2014 of $52,740 due to ETI which is comprised of a $44,310 monthly service fee described above and $8,430 in miscellaneous charges.


During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company acquired approximately $40,000 in aftermarket parts which is included in inventory and in cost of sales as applicable from ETI.


For the period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, as consideration for certain administrative functions, the Company pays ETI a monthly service fee of $56,360, which is included in other general and administrative expenses in the attached statement of operations.


For the period from May 24, 2013 through December 31, 2013, the Company acquired approximately $180,000 in aftermarket parts which is included in inventory and in costs of sales as applicable from ETI.




F-52



FIDELITY NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS, LLC

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED

DECEMBER 31, 2014



11. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS


Note Payable Issuance


In February 2015, the Company issued a note payable in the aggregate principal amount of $0.5 million to one of the Company’s Board members. The note accrues interest at an annual rate of 12%, maturing in January 2016 with a partial interest payment due September 1, 2015 in the amount of $15,000 with the balance due January 30, 2016. The Company also extended the Maturity Date from September 2015 to December 2015 for the original note issued in October 2014 in the aggregate principal amount of $1.0 million. Furthermore, the Company entered into a forbearance agreement relating to the $1.0 million note where the note will not be callable and quarterly interest payments are deferred until the due date so long as the Company makes a September 1, 2015 interest payment in the amount of $30,000 with the balance due December 30, 2015.


Forbearance Agreement


In January 2015, the Company entered into a forbearance agreement on notes payable related to equipment purchases from ETI due July and November 2016, respectively. The forbearance agreement waives monthly payments through June 30, 2015. The Company will pay $15,000 per month per note payable beginning July 1, 2015 through the notes due dates. See Note 6.




F-53