Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

When the world is fighting climate change, global warming and waste management, my company seeks to solve all that. Up cycling of HDPE,PP and PE into affordable construction materials such as building blocks, Cabros’ fencing poles and pavers.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Our startup is a modern, innovative initiative focused on upcycling plastic to produce affordable housing solutions. We specialize in crafting construction building materials such as Interlocking Eco Blocks, Pavers, Cabrows, and fencing poles using Polyethylene (PET)and Polypropylene (PP) and HDPE which is combined with Sand/Foundry Dust at 70% and 30 % ratio respectively. Our process begins with the collection of discarded plastics, which we either gather from waste dumps or purchase from collectors. These collected plastics are then processed using advanced machinery. First, a three-phase crusher machine breaks down the plastic waste into manageable pieces. These pieces are then fed into an extruder, which melts and reshapes them into new, usable forms. Plastic serves the same function as cement, providing a robust and durable bond. The abundance and availability of plastic waste make it a cost-effective alternative to traditional building materials.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

Global plastic waste has doubled from 2000 to 2020, reaching 353 million tons, with only 9% being recycled. Each day, 8 million pieces of plastic enter the oceans, and 73% of beach litter is plastic. The COVID-19 pandemic has added 3 billion masks to ocean pollution. Additionally, 53% of the world's population lacks access to decent shelter.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your startup provides (at least 3).

1.Environmental Impact: By upcycling plastic waste into construction materials, we significantly reduce the amount of plastic pollution in the environment, contributing to cleaner surroundings and healthier ecosystems. 2. Affordability: Our innovative approach enables us to create affordable housing options by using inexpensive raw materials, making quality housing accessible to a larger segment of the population, particularly those in need. 3. Durability and Versatility: The construction materials we produce, such as Interlocking Eco Blocks and Pavers, offer exceptional durability and versatility. They are suitable for various building applications, ensuring long-lasting and resilient structures that can withstand diverse environmental conditions. 4. With a shelf life of over 90 years, our materials provide sustainable housing solutions while significantly reducing plastic pollution.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your startup’s product/service is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

1. Communities in Disaster-Prone Areas: Our durable materials, with a shelf life of over 90 years, provide robust housing solutions for areas prone to natural disasters. 2..Recycling Collectors: Our demand for plastic waste supports recycling collectors and waste management companies, reducing landfill waste and promoting recycling. 3.Environmental Organizations: By upcycling plastic waste into valuable building materials, we support efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability. 4. Environmental Organizations: By upcycling plastic waste into valuable building materials, we support efforts to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability. 5.Urban Developers and Governments: Our sustainable materials are ideal for large-scale housing projects, addressing housing shortages and promoting eco-friendly construction 6.Low-Income Families: We provide affordable housing materials like Interlocking Eco Blocks, Pavers, Cabrows, and fencing poles, enabling low-income family

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-01-23

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

Yes

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

2

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

01.09 Please describe the profile of the other owners within your startup (skills, experience, etc.)

Maria Mathias Ponda, a 25-year-old female entrepreneur, possesses a background in Business Management from Equip Africa College has a vast knowledge in matters project management.

01.10 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link(s) here:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093145031993&mibextid=ZbWKwL

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

c) Industry (equipment, commercial, logistical and professional services, transport)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Our startup aims to contribute to the goal of eradicating poverty by providing sustainable employment opportunities and empowering individuals to improve their economic circumstances. Through our business model, we prioritize fair wages, ethical sourcing, and community development initiatives. By creating jobs and supporting local economies, we strive to uplift communities and alleviate poverty in the areas where we operate. Additionally, we are committed to investing a portion of our profits into social impact projects that address key issues such as education, healthcare, and access to basic necessities, further contributing to poverty alleviation efforts.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

Our startup directly addresses the intertwined issues of poverty and hunger by engaging with individuals in waste collection, a sector where workers are often marginalized and impoverished. We ensure fair wages by purchasing plastic from them at fair rates, providing them with a sustainable source of income. With this financial stability, these individuals are empowered to improve their living conditions and alleviate their families from hunger. By supporting these communities, we contribute to the dual objectives of zero hunger .

02.03.01 My startup contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification for my startup

By collecting and properly disposing of plastic waste, our startup helps prevent environmental pollution, which has significant health implications. Plastic pollution can contaminate soil, water sources, and the air, leading to a range of health problems such as respiratory issues, waterborne diseases, and exposure to harmful chemicals. Our affordable housing solutions provide safe and durable living environments for individuals and families. Access to adequate housing is essential for physical and mental well-being, reducing the risk of diseases and promoting overall health. Our initiative promotes sustainable living practices by repurposing plastic waste and reducing reliance on traditional building materials. Sustainable living contributes to environmental conservation and fosters healthier lifestyles for individuals and communities.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

Our startup contributes to quality education by offering affordable construction blocks that, if properly utilized by education stakeholders, can significantly improve learning infrastructure. By providing cost-effective building materials, we enable schools and educational institutions to construct classrooms and facilities that meet quality standards. Access to proper learning infrastructure is essential for creating conducive environments where students can thrive academically. Affordable housing reduces the likelihood of families having to frequently move due to financial constraints, which can disrupt children's education. Stable housing allows students to remain enrolled in the same school, fostering continuity in their education. Through our sustainable practices, such as upcycling plastic waste into building materials, we promote environmental education and awareness. Educating individuals about the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation prepares future gen

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Our industry promotes gender equality by providing opportunities that are favorable to all genders, as it does not require a significant amount of physical strength. In our workplace, individuals of any gender can thrive based on their skills, knowledge, and dedication, rather than physical attributes. We actively foster an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated, and all employees are treated with respect and equal opportunity. Our initiative creates job opportunities in waste collection, processing, and manufacturing sectors, providing equal employment opportunities for both men and women. By breaking traditional gender roles in the workforce, we contribute to economic empowerment and gender equality.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

By collecting plastic waste, our startup not only cleans the environment but also combats the dire issue of marine pollution and Urban Sanitation .We venture into the of the ocean and beach clean up to retrieve discarded plastics on the shorsles, preventing them from further contaminating marine ecosystems and endangering aquatic life. Plastic waste also block sewage system which cause flooding in urban areas , our collection ensure best sanitation practices. Our use of sustainable building materials, such as Interlocking Eco Blocks and Pavers made from recycled plastic, reduces the reliance on traditional construction materials that may contain harmful chemicals or pollutants. This promotes eco-friendly construction practices that are conducive to clean water and sanitation.

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

our startup's commitment to affordable and clean energy not only benefits individuals and businesses economically but also contributes to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape for present and future generations.

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

Our startup actively contributes to decent work and economic growth by creating employment opportunities and fostering economic development in the communities where we operate. Through our business activities, we provide fair and stable employment, ensuring that workers are treated with dignity and respect. Additionally, we prioritize investing in the skills development and well-being of our employees, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to the economy.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup utilizes advanced manufacturing processes, including extrusion and three-phase crushing, to transform plastic waste into durable building materials. By incorporating cutting-edge technology and techniques, we drive innovation and efficiency in the production of construction materials. By upcycling plastic waste into valuable building materials, we promote a circular economy model in the construction industry. Our initiative encourages the reuse and repurposing of materials, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. our startup plays a pivotal role in driving industry innovation and infrastructure development through the introduction of innovative building materials, adoption of advanced manufacturing processes, promotion of sustainable practices, promotion of circular economy principles, and collaboration with stakeholders across the industry.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

In my startup, we strive to reduce inequalities in employment sectors by maintaining a balanced gender ratio. Our packaging products and pipes, primarily made from polyethylene and polypropylene, are accessible and utilized by individuals of all genders in manufacturing factories. The environment, crucial for the habitat of plants, animals, aquatic life, and humans, faces a threat from polypropylene and polyethylene waste. Our modern innovative startup is dedicated to solving this problem, benefiting individuals of all genders and all kingdoms of living organisms on Earth. Through plastic upcycling, we clean the environment and produce new, innovative, and affordable house-building materials ready for consumption by people of all genders. Additionally, our plastic upcycling factory provides employment opportunities for individuals of both genders, furthering our commitment to reducing inequalities in workforce and also put food on the table for people of different families.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

In the startup our main agenda is to help reduce and manage plastic waste in the coastal region of Kenya mainly Mombasa which is facing high rise of plastics population in the sewers and the Indian Ocean. During heavy rains Mombasa as County faces floods due to blockage of drainage and we aim at curbing the problem by collecting and upcycling the plastic and put them into good use and provide better environment to the community.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

In the startup we collect and upcycle dump plastic wastes and manufacture affordable and ecofriendly construction and facing materials which are consumed by human beings nationally and internationally. In the process we aslo aim in collecting and upcycling the plastic wastes into raws plastic pallets which will be consumed by other industries in packing materials.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

In the startup we collect and upcycle the dumped plastic waste from the environment. Plastic is produces from foil fuels and during extraction and creation of these plastic greenhouse gases are produced and this contribute global warming and by upcycling and recycling of the already existing plastic by our company we reduce the the extensity of this threat of global warming thereby contributing climate global goal. Our durable building materials, with a shelf life of over 90 years, contribute to climate resilience by providing long-lasting infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events and other impacts of climate change. By building resilient communities and infrastructure, we help communities adapt to the challenges posed by a changing climate.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

Plastic pollution negatively impacts marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangroves, and coastal habitats. By reducing plastic waste and preventing it from entering marine environments, we help protect fragile ecosystems and promote biodiversity below water. Healthy marine ecosystems are essential for sustaining fisheries and livelihoods dependent on marine resources. By mitigating plastic pollution and promoting marine conservation, we support sustainable fisheries management and ensure the long-term viability of marine resources. in promoting "Life Below Water" by reducing plastic pollution, promoting marine conservation, protecting ecosystems, supporting sustainable fisheries, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving marine environments. Through these efforts, we contribute to safeguarding marine life and ensuring the health and sustainability of our oceans for future generations.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

1. Plastic Waste Reduction: By upcycling plastic waste into durable building materials, we prevent significant amounts of plastic from polluting terrestrial ecosystems. Plastic pollution adversely affects soil quality, plant life, and wildlife habitats. By repurposing plastic waste, we help mitigate the impacts of plastic pollution on land-based ecosystems. 2. Habitat Restoration: Our initiative promotes habitat restoration by reducing the demand for virgin materials extracted from natural habitats. By using recycled materials in construction, we help conserve forests, wetlands, and other critical ecosystems that support terrestrial biodiversity. our startup plays a vital role in promoting "Life on Land" by reducing plastic pollution, promoting habitat restoration, conserving soil, protecting biodiversity, engaging communities, and advocating for environmental stewardship. Through these efforts, we contribute to the conservation and sustainability of terrestrial ecosystems.

02.16.01 My startup contributes to the Peace Justice and Strong Institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Our startup collects and upcycle plastic waste and manufacture affordable and eco-friendly construction materials such as interlocking blocks, Cabros and fencing materials. This inturn ensures that almost all population of of the society get the right of good and affordable shelter. When the community do not strain in get there primary needs like shelter this promote peace justice and strong institution. Our Startup has provided employment opportunities for young innovative individuals in the society solving unemployment problems our country Kenya in currently facing taking us a step in peaceful and stable institution. Our initiative addresses housing inequality by offering affordable housing options to low-income families and individuals. By promoting social equity and reducing disparities in access to housing, we contribute to a more just and inclusive society.

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

My startup contributes strongly in fighting global warming and environmental pollution by plastic waste.

06.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.02 The product/service represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.03 The product/service could be described as a new technology.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.04 The product/service is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.05 The product/service could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.06 The product/service responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.07 The product/service is a new version of an old product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

My idea is very unique and innovative, because instead of projecting plastic waste as a menace we were able to see an opportunity from it which impacts the world positively. Over decades Cement has been used or viewed as the best alternative when it came to construction because of its durability and strength. However mining of the cement posed a great challenge impacting the environment negatively, by leaving lands ugly after mining , CO2 emission to the atmosphere when processing and it’s very expensive to buy. These two factors prompted to the evolution of using plastic as a binding element as an alternative to cement . Which leave lands very beautiful, zero Co2 emission and very cheap to buy. My startup's product/service can be described as a groundbreaking new technology in the field of sustainable construction and waste management. By utilizing innovative processes and advanced machinery, we transform plastic waste into durable building materials.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors may include traditional construction material suppliers, as well as other startups or companies in the sustainable construction and waste management sectors. What sets us apart from them is our innovative approach to addressing both environmental and social challenges simultaneously. While traditional suppliers may focus solely on providing construction materials, we differentiate ourselves by offering a holistic solution that not only reduces plastic pollution but also provides affordable housing solutions. Additionally, our commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement distinguishes us from other players in the market. We prioritize zero-waste processes, zero-energy water, and zero CO2 emission.

11.05 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes I do I made sure female gender is part of my employees. In our collection point as an organization we ensure 50% of the gender are women who are normally involved in sorting . We do social corporate responsibility such as distributing free sanitary pad to our community around us.