Kenya - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Bioengineering microbes to upcycle agricultural waste from smallholder farmers into carbon-neutral materials with use case in fashion & footwear, automotive interiors and the packaging industry.

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

Rethread Africa is a sustainable materials startup working to create a new inclusive future for biomaterials, reducing environmental impact, and supporting smallholder farmers. We bioengineer microbes to upcycle post-harvest agricultural waste like sugarcane bagasse into carbon-neutral polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). This innovative approach offers an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials, significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Our process is designed to be zero-waste and chemical-free, enhancing sustainability across multiple industries, including fashion, footwear, automotive, and packaging. Our operations in Nairobi collaborate closely with smallholder farmers, providing them with a new income stream by purchasing their agricultural waste. This not only helps manage waste more effectively but also contributes to the local economy. The resulting biomaterials are recyclable up to six times and are naturally biodegradable.

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

At Rethread Africa, we are tackling the critical problem of environmental degradation caused by synthetic materials and inefficient agricultural waste management. Synthetic fibers like polyester, derived from fossil fuels, are a significant pollutant and contributor to global carbon emissions. Simultaneously, in Africa, smallholder farmers often dispose of agricultural waste like sugarcane bagasse by burning or leaving it to decompose, which not only wastes potential resources but also releases methane, exacerbating climate change. We are addressing these issues by bioengineering bacteria to transform this agricultural waste into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a biodegradable and recyclable biomaterial. This innovative approach provides a sustainable alternative to harmful synthetics, reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, and turns problematic waste into a valuable resource.

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

Our biodegradable and recyclable polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are produced using sugarcane bagasse, which significantly reduces the reliance on non-renewable, petroleum-based synthetic materials. This shift helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduces the environmental footprint associated with the textiles and materials industries. By purchasing agricultural waste, which is often considered a disposal burden, we provide smallholder farmers with a new source of income. This supports local economies and promotes sustainable agricultural practices, turning what would be waste into a valuable commodity. Our process converts agricultural waste into valuable materials, preventing the burning or landfilling of this waste, which would otherwise release methane and other harmful emissions. The use of our biodegradable materials also means that they can naturally decompose after their useful life, unlike synthetic alternatives that persist in the environment and contribute to pollution.

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

We target manufacturers and brands within the fashion and footwear industries looking for sustainable, biodegradable materials as alternatives to conventional synthetic fibers. Our biomaterials provide these companies with an opportunity to meet increasing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products. Companies in the automotive sector seeking sustainable materials for interior applications, such as seat covers and upholstery, are also beneficiaries. Our bioengineered materials offer similar qualities to traditional fabrics but with a significantly lower environmental impact. Our biomaterials serve businesses in the packaging industry looking for green, recyclable alternatives to plastic and other non-degradable materials. This helps companies reduce their ecological footprint and align with global sustainability standards.

01.05 When was your company established?

2023-04-18

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

4

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

2

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

Vincent Momanyi: With a strong background in polymer research, Vincent drives our product innovation. His expertise in renewable materials is pivotal in developing our biopolymer products. Noreen Mwancha: Leading our business development, Noreen applies her deep understanding of economics and market dynamics to expand our reach and impact in the sustainable materials market. Mitesh Varsani: Our finance lead, Mitesch brings critical strategic insight and financial acumen, ensuring our operations are scalable and financially sustainable. Hawolul Ali: Specializing in material engineering, Hawolul focuses on the technical aspects of our product development, ensuring the highest quality and functionality standards.

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

https://rethread.africa/

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

Rethread Africa directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal of No Poverty by providing additional economic opportunities to smallholder farmers through the purchase of agricultural waste. Our business model transforms this waste into valuable biomaterials, turning what would otherwise be an environmental burden into a profitable resource for farmers. This initiative not only enhances the income of farmers but also promotes economic stability and resilience in rural communities where poverty rates are often higher. By integrating these communities into our supply chain, we ensure that farmers receive fair compensation, thereby reducing poverty and improving their livelihoods. This approach not only supports the local economy but also aligns with sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to broader poverty alleviation efforts.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

While our primary focus is not directly on food production, our efforts indirectly support sustainable agriculture and resource management, which are essential for achieving food security. Rethread Africa contributes to the "Zero Hunger" goal primarily by promoting sustainable agricultural practices and economic stability for smallholder farmers. Our startup enhances the use of agricultural waste from sugarcane bagasse, which would otherwise be discarded or burned, creating environmental hazards and potential loss of usable land for food production. By purchasing this waste, we provide farmers with an additional source of income, which can improve their financial ability to invest in their farms, increase agricultural productivity, and support food security. Furthermore, by focusing on sustainable practices, we help maintain the long-term fertility and usability of agricultural land, ensuring it remains viable for food production.

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

3

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

While Rethread Africa's direct focus isn't on health services or medical care, our contribution to the "Good Health and Well-being" goal comes through our environmental sustainability efforts. By transforming agricultural waste into sustainable materials, we reduce the burning of this waste, which typically releases harmful pollutants into the air. This reduction in air pollution contributes to better respiratory health and overall well-being in the communities where this waste would have been burned. Additionally, promoting cleaner and more sustainable agricultural practices helps in maintaining healthier ecosystems, which are crucial for the well-being of all community members. Our work indirectly supports healthier living environments, which is a foundational aspect of good health and well-being.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

3

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

NA

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

Rethread Africa contributes to gender equality by actively involving and empowering women in both rural and technical fields. Our operations ensure fair compensation for women smallholder farmers and provide reskilling opportunities, enabling them to take on roles in new material development from microbiology to polymer research and material engineering. This approach not only fosters economic independence but also empowers women to engage in cutting-edge scientific work, in traditionally male-dominated fields. By creating pathways for women in these areas, we enhance their professional capabilities and promote gender equality in high-tech sectors. This holistic approach helps bridge gender gaps and ensures women's participation and empowerment across various aspects of our value chain.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

3

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

NA

02.07.01 My startup contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

2

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification for my startup

NA

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

Rethread Africa significantly contributes to promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth and decent work through its innovative approach to sustainable material production. By integrating smallholder farmers into our value chain, we provide them with a stable income source by purchasing agricultural waste, which is typically undervalued or discarded. This not only improves their economic stability but also fosters inclusive economic participation. Furthermore, our operations in manufacturing bio-based materials create skilled and unskilled job opportunities in both rural and urban areas, supporting economic diversification. By prioritizing environmentally sustainable practices, we ensure that these jobs contribute to long-term economic growth and sustainability. Our efforts align with promoting a circular economy, which is essential for sustained economic growth, thereby supporting broader development goals.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

Our startup's work centers on the innovative use of bioengineering to transform agricultural waste - specifically sugarcane bagasse - into high-value, sustainable biomaterials. This process not only introduces a new, eco-friendly alternative to traditional synthetic materials but also encourages the development of sustainable industrial processes. Our initiatives promote inclusive industrialization by incorporating local farmers into our supply chain and by developing infrastructure that supports sustainable material production. This approach helps modernize the material production sector with green technologies that are less dependent on fossil fuels and more aligned with environmental sustainability. Moreover, by pushing the boundaries of material science and leveraging cutting-edge biotechnology, Rethhead Africa is at the forefront of industrial innovation.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

Our social business model contributes to reducing inequalities by ensuring that our economic benefits are widely and fairly distributed among all participants in our supply chain, especially among marginalized and rural communities. By purchasing agricultural waste from smallholder farmers at fair prices, we provide an additional, reliable income source, thus contributing to reducing income disparities. Additionally, we focus on promoting gender equality and inclusivity in both our hiring practices and partnerships, ensuring that women and other underrepresented groups have equitable opportunities to benefit from our operations. This approach helps to address economic and social inequalities within the communities we operate, supporting broader efforts to reduce disparities both locally and in the broader regions where these practices can be replicated.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

4

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

While Rethread Africa's main focus is not directly on urban development, our operations indirectly support the creation of sustainable cities and communities. PHA biopolymer production reduces environmental impact by providing eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic materials, which is crucial for reducing urban pollution and enhancing urban resilience. Additionally, by fostering cleaner production techniques and promoting the recycling and biodegradability of materials, we contribute to the sustainability of urban environments where these materials are used. Our efforts in reducing waste and promoting sustainability in the material production sector align with the broader goals of enhancing urban sustainability, albeit indirectly.

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

Rethread Africa strongly supports the goal of Responsible Consumption and Production by embedding the principles of the circular economy into our core operations. We specialize in transforming agricultural waste, specifically sugarcane bagasse, into polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), a biodegradable and recyclable biomaterial. This process significantly reduces the waste that would otherwise be burned or landfilled, promoting resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Our materials are designed to be recyclable up to six times and biodegrade naturally, which minimizes waste and encourages sustainable consumption patterns. Additionally, our production processes are developed to use minimal resources and avoid toxic chemicals, further aligning with sustainable production practices. This commitment to eco-friendly material production exemplifies our dedication to fostering a more sustainable and responsible approach to consumption and production globally.

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

We transform agricultural waste, specifically sugarcane bagasse, into carbon-neutral biomaterials, which significantly reduces the emission of greenhouse gases compared to traditional waste disposal methods like burning. This process prevents the release of methane and carbon dioxide, two potent greenhouse gases, into the atmosphere. Furthermore, our bio-based materials reduce reliance on fossil fuel-derived synthetics, which are major contributors to carbon emissions. By promoting the use of sustainable, biodegradable materials, we help decrease the overall carbon footprint of the textile and packaging industries. Our approach not only mitigates the immediate impacts of agricultural waste but also supports long-term climate resilience by fostering sustainable agricultural and industrial practices. Through these efforts, Rethread Africa is actively taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts, aligning strongly with global climate action goals.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

While our primary focus is on sustainable material production and agricultural waste management, our efforts to reduce reliance on synthetic, non-biodegradable materials indirectly support marine conservation by reducing the potential for plastic pollution in oceans and other water bodies.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

By transforming agricultural waste into biodegradable biomaterials, we help reduce the environmental impact of agricultural waste disposal, which typically involves burning or landfilling. This practice prevents land degradation and promotes the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. Moreover, by providing smallholder farmers with an additional income source, we incentivize sustainable land management and reduce the pressure to overexploit natural resources. This economic stability helps farmers adopt more sustainable agricultural practices, contributing to healthier soils and ecosystems. Our materials, being biodegradable, also ensure that they do not contribute to long-term pollution in terrestrial environments, thus supporting biodiversity and preventing land degradation. These combined efforts align with protecting, restoring, and promoting the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, as well as combating desertification and halting biodiversity loss.

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

3

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

Our primary focus is on sustainable material production and agricultural waste management, which does not directly impact peace, justice, or institutional strength. However, our commitment to fair trade practices and community engagement promotes inclusive economic development and indirectly supports more stable and just local communities.

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

We work closely with smallholder farmers, providing them with a reliable income source through the purchase of agricultural waste. Our partnerships with research institutions and universities foster innovation and knowledge transfer, enabling the development of cutting-edge bioengineering solutions. Additionally, we engage with local communities and industry players to integrate sustainable practices across various sectors, promoting a circular economy. These collaborations enhance our ability to implement and scale our sustainable initiatives, ensuring that our impact extends beyond local communities to broader global sustainability efforts. By leveraging these diverse partnerships, Rethread Africa exemplifies how effective, accountable, and inclusive partnerships can drive significant progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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

3

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

6

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.

5

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

4

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.

3

06.08 Justification for my startup

Our product represents an entirely new type of service by converting agricultural waste, specifically sugarcane bagasse, into biodegradable polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which is a novel and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials like polyester. This process involves cutting-edge biotechnology that trains bacteria to break down waste into valuable biomaterials, making it a new technology in the materials industry. Our product/service meets a critical demand for sustainable and biodegradable materials in the fashion, footwear, automotive, and packaging industries, which is not fully satisfied by existing products. Unlike traditional synthetic materials that are derived from fossil fuels and contribute to environmental pollution, our biomaterials offer a sustainable and recyclable alternative that significantly reduces environmental impact.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Mango Materials: This company produces biodegradable polymers from methane, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. What sets Rethread Africa apart is our focus on using agricultural waste, specifically sugarcane bagasse, which not only reduces methane emissions but also addresses agricultural waste management issues. Newlight Technologies: They produce AirCarbon, a PHA-based material derived from air and greenhouse gases. While their technology is innovative, Rethread Africa’s competitive edge lies in our integration with smallholder farmers, providing economic benefits and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, which enhances our social impact. RWDC Industries: Specializing in producing PHA from plant-based oils and food waste, RWDC is another strong competitor. Rethread Africa differentiates itself by utilizing sugarcane bagasse, a more specific and abundant feedstock in our region, thus ensuring a stable and scalable raw material supply.

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

Yes, Rethread Africa is actively initiating actions within the community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs. Reskilling Programs: We run reskilling programs specifically aimed at women, providing them with training in microbiology, polymer research, and material engineering. This empowers them with the knowledge and skills needed to participate actively in our sustainable material production processes. Leadership Opportunities: Within our organization, we ensure that women have the opportunity to take on leadership roles. This not only promotes gender equality but also inspires other women in the community to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Economic Empowerment: By involving women smallholder farmers in our supply chain, we provide them with a new source of income, thereby enhancing their economic stability and empowering them to reinvest in their communities.