Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

The Charcoal Flame Project aiming to developing cleaner and more sustainable cooking energy by using local sawmill waste (sawdust and slabs) while mitigate environmental impact and addressing energy needs in resource-limited settings

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

The Charcoal Flame project has been designed with goals of increasing the use of renewable and sustainable energy for gcooking (Sustainable Cooking Fuel Briquettes) aiming to encouraging the conservation, development and sustainable use of forest resources. This project in its implementation aims to produce clean and environmentally friendly home cooking energy that uses sawdust and waste from the local sawmilling to make briquettes charcoal. The project aims to install small machines that will produce 500kg of charcoal briquettes per day at the early stage and grow as time go. The implementation of this project is in line with the efforts to deal with the challenges of destruction and the increase in the demand for cooking energy (Firewood and Charcoal) in the country by developing cleaner and more sustainable cooking energy and optimize combustion processes and mitigate environmental impact while addressing energy needs in resource-limited settings.

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

Population growth is still high in Tanzania, 85% of households still use firewood and charcoal as cooking fuel. Large-scale harvesting of trees for firewood and charcoal making and widespread use of firewood and charcoal for cooking, driving deforestation and ecosystem damage. The Charcoal Flame Project addresses this by creating a sustainable, cleaner alternative briquettes charcoal from sawmill residues. This initiative targets reducing deforestation, forest degradation, and forest fires, while also enhancing indoor air quality through cleaner burning practices. Also, the Charcoal Flame Project fosters local economic empowerment, generating income opportunities while promoting environmental conservation. It aims for a sustainable, better quality of life for all involved.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

1. The charcoal briquettes provided by the Charcoal Flame Project offer an efficient cooking energy solution, serving as a sustainable alternative to traditional firewood and charcoal. With a consistent heat output and longer burn time, these briquettes simplify cooking processes while reducing fuel consumption and costs. 2. Environmental Conservation: By utilizing sawmill residues for charcoal briquette production instead of cutting down trees for traditional firewood and charcoal, the project significantly reduces deforestation and forest degradation 3. Economic Empowerment and Sustainable Livelihoods: The Charcoal Flame Project not only offers a sustainable alternative to traditional cooking fuels but also creates income-generating opportunities for local communities. By engaging in the production and sale of charcoal briquettes, individuals can earn a livelihood while contributing to environmental conservation efforts

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

The Charcoal Flame project primarily targets people who living in town and cities, especially in Iringa, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma and Arusha who rely on lamp charcoal for cooking and heating. Its beneficiaries include households, particularly those in rural areas, where access to clean and sustainable cooking energy is limited. By providing an alternative fuel source through briquettes made from local sawdust and waste, the project aims to reduce dependence on forest resources especially natural forest, mitigate environmental impact, and enhance community resilience against forest fires. Benefits local sawmill owner’s by providing a sustainable solution for their waste management while reducing the fire risk for forest plantation. The project indirectly serves to improve public health by reducing indoor air pollution associated with traditional cooking methods

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-08-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

10

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

5

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

6 Production Workers: • Skills: Wood industries technology, ability to operate machinery safely and efficiently • Experience: On-the-job training can be provided. 1 Quality Control Technician • Skills: Wood industries technology, ability to perform quality checks using appropriate tools and techniques • Experience: Knowledge of manufacturing processes and quality management systems is beneficial 1 Maintenance Staff • Skills: Mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, ability to perform routine maintenance and repairs on machinery and equipment • Experience: Training in machinery maintenance may be provided on the job 1 Administrative Staff • Skills: Organizational skills, attention to detail, proficiency in office software and good communication skills • Experience: Previous experience in administrative roles, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial setting 1 Sales and Marketing Representative • Skills: Communication skills, negotiation skills, ability to build relationships with

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

www.ekaruwageorge.com

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

The project contributes significantly to Goal 1: No Poverty. By providing employment opportunities to local community members, especially in rural areas where poverty rates are often high, the project helps alleviate poverty. Additionally, by producing clean and affordable cooking energy, it reduces the financial burden on households, many of which currently spend a significant portion of their income on traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal. By promoting sustainable livelihoods and reducing energy costs, the project empowers communities to lift themselves out of poverty and improve their overall standard of living.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

While the primary focus of my project is on providing clean and sustainable cooking energy, which indirectly impacts food security by reducing the environmental impact of traditional charcoal making, it does not directly address issues related to food production, distribution, or access. However, by alleviating the financial burden on households through the production of affordable cooking energy, the project indirectly supports food security by freeing up household resources that can be allocated towards food purchases. Additionally, by promoting environmental conservation, the project may contribute to the long-term sustainability of food production systems, thereby indirectly supporting efforts to achieve Zero Hunger.

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

4

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

The project contributes significantly to Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being. By providing clean and environmentally friendly cooking energy, it helps reduce indoor air pollution, which is a major contributor to respiratory diseases and other health issues, especially in households where other source of energy like firewood are used for cooking. By promoting the use of cleaner energy sources, my project improves the health and well-being of individuals, particularly women and children, who are most affected by indoor air pollution. Reducing dependence on firewood, the project indirectly contributes to reducing the risks associated with gathering fuelwood, such as accidents and exposure to dangerous animals or criminals, further enhancing community health and well-being. Project indirectly supports good health and well-being by mitigating environmental degradation and deforestation, which are linked to various health hazards such as loss of biodiversity, water pollution, and soil erosion

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

By promoting environmental conservation and sustainable practices, the project may offer opportunities for educational initiatives related to environmental awareness and sustainability, thereby enhancing the quality of education in the community. However, direct educational interventions or initiatives are not explicitly included in the project's objectives. Therefore, while the project has the potential to indirectly support quality education, its contribution in this regard may be limited compared to other initiatives with a more direct focus on education.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The project strongly contributes to Goal 5: Gender Equality by actively promoting gender balance and inclusivity in the workforce. By employing an equal number of male and female workers, the project sets a positive example of gender equality in the workplace and creates opportunities for women to participate in economic activities traditionally dominated by men. This not only empowers women economically but also challenges societal mindset and stereotypes about gender roles in employment. By providing equal employment opportunities and ensuring fair treatment and representation of both genders, project fosters an environment of gender equality and creates pathways for women to contribute meaningfully to their communities' socio-economic development. Promoting gender-balanced work environments, your project contributes to breaking down barriers to women's economic empowerment and advancing progress towards achieving broader gender equality goals at the local and national levels.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

While the primary focus of the project is on providing clean and sustainable cooking energy, it indirectly contributes to Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation by mitigating environmental degradation and reducing pressure on water resources. Promoting the use of cleaner cooking fuels, such as briquettes made from sawdust and waste materials, the project helps reduce the demand for firewood and lump charcoal especial from natural forest, which often leads to forest degradation.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

The project strongly contributes to Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy. By producing clean and environmentally friendly cooking energy using briquettes made from sawdust and waste materials, project directly addresses the need for affordable and sustainable energy sources. This initiative reduces reliance on traditional fuels like firewood and lamp charcoal, which are often associated with indoor air pollution, deforestation, and negative health impacts. Utilizing locally available waste materials, project promotes resource efficiency and supports the transition towards cleaner energy solutions. By making clean cooking energy more accessible and affordable, project not only improves the quality of life for households but also contributes to broader energy access goals, thereby advancing sustainable development efforts.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The project strongly contributes to Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by creating employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas where economic opportunities may be limited. By establishing a small-scale briquette making factory and employing both male and female workers, the project provides stable and sustainable livelihoods for community members. This not only enhances economic growth at the local level but also promotes social inclusion and reduces inequalities by offering equal employment opportunities to both genders. By utilizing locally available waste materials and promoting sustainable practices, the project contributes to resource efficiency and supports environmentally sustainable economic growth. The project plays a crucial role in fostering decent work and economic growth by promoting entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities, and supporting the development of sustainable local economies.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project contributes significantly to Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. By introducing innovative technology and processes for producing charcoal briquettes from sawdust and waste materials, the project promotes industrial innovation in the cooking fuel sector. The implementation of small-scale machines to manufacture these briquettes demonstrates a commitment to improving existing infrastructure and enhancing production efficiency. Utilizing locally available waste materials and promoting sustainable practices, such as reducing forest fire risks through the utilization of sawdust and small sawmill waste, the project fosters the development of sustainable infrastructure. This not only improves the efficiency of resource utilization but also reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional charcoal production methods. Also the project may stimulate further innovation and investment in renewable energy technologies

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project significantly contributes to Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities by employing an equal number of male and female. This inclusive approach not only breaks down traditional gender roles but also addresses socio-economic disparities by providing stable jobs to both genders. By offering equal employment opportunities, the project promotes gender equality in the workforce and ensures fair treatment and representation for all workers, regardless of gender. This initiative challenges societal mindsets and stereotypes about gender roles in employment, fostering an environment of gender equality. Moreover, by providing affordable clean energy solutions, the project reduces disparities in energy access, particularly benefiting marginalized communities, thus advancing economic and energy equity. Overall, the Charcoal Flame project actively contributes to reducing inequalities, both in employment and energy access, promoting inclusivity and economic empowerment.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project contributes significantly to Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by promoting sustainable practices in energy production and consumption. By utilizing locally available waste materials, such as sawdust and small sawmill waste, to produce charcoal briquettes, the project reduces the dependency on traditional, environmentally harmful cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal. This not only mitigates environmental impact but also contributes to the creation of cleaner and healthier living environments within communities. By offering an alternative fuel source for cooking and heating, the project supports efforts to reduce air pollution and improve air quality, leading to more sustainable urban living conditions. Furthermore, the project's focus on community engagement and empowerment fosters resilience and social cohesion, contributing to the overall sustainability and well-being of cities and communities in the region.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project strongly contributes to Goal 12 by promoting responsible consumption and production practices. By utilizing locally sourced waste materials, such as sawdust and small sawmill waste, to produce charcoal briquettes, the project reduces reliance on unsustainable harvesting of natural resources like trees for traditional charcoal production. The project mitigates deforestation and habitat destruction but also minimizes waste by repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. The project's focus on producing clean and sustainable cooking fuel briquettes encourages consumers to adopt more environmentally friendly energy alternatives, promoting responsible consumption patterns. By optimizing combustion processes and mitigating environmental impacts, the project exemplifies responsible production practices, contributing to the overall sustainability of resource utilization in the community.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Firstly, by utilizing locally available waste materials like sawdust and small sawmill waste to produce charcoal briquettes, the project reduces reliance on traditional charcoal production methods, which often contribute to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, helps to mitigate the impacts of climate change by preserving forest ecosystems and sequestering carbon. The project promotes the use of clean and sustainable cooking fuel briquettes, which emit fewer pollutants and greenhouse gases compared to traditional cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal. By optimizing combustion processes and reducing environmental impacts, the project further enhances its contribution to climate action. Overall, the Charcoal Flame project exemplifies a proactive approach to combating climate change by promoting sustainable energy practices and mitigating environmental degradation.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

4

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

While the primary focus of the Charcoal Flame project is on sustainable cooking fuel production and reducing reliance on traditional charcoal, there are indirect contributions to Goal 14. By utilizing locally sourced waste materials for briquette production instead of wood from forests, the project helps mitigate deforestation, which can indirectly benefit marine ecosystems by reducing soil erosion and sediment runoff into waterways. By promoting cleaner cooking fuel alternatives, the project may indirectly contribute to reducing air pollution, which can have positive impacts on coastal and marine environments by reducing acidification and harmful algal blooms. However, the direct impact of the project on marine ecosystems may be limited compared to other goals, hence the somewhat agree rating.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project significantly contributes to Goal 15 by promoting sustainable land use practices and biodiversity conservation. By utilizing locally sourced waste materials such as sawdust and small sawmill waste for charcoal briquette production, the project reduces the demand for traditional charcoal made from natural forest resources. This helps mitigate deforestation and habitat destruction, preserving vital ecosystems and biodiversity on land. By offering an alternative fuel source for cooking and heating, the project helps reduce pressure on forests and natural habitats, thus supporting the conservation of terrestrial ecosystems and the species that depend on them. Also, the project's emphasis on sustainable land management and reduced reliance on forest resources aligns closely with the objectives of Goal 15, making a significant contribution to the preservation of life on land.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

The Charcoal Flame project contributes to Goal 16 by promoting community cohesion, sustainable resource management, and inclusive governance. By providing stable employment opportunities and economic empowerment, especially in rural areas, the project fosters social stability and reduces the likelihood of conflict over scarce resources. The project utilizing locally available waste materials for charcoal briquette production, the project helps mitigate environmental degradation, which can be a source of tension and conflict within communities. The project's emphasis on inclusive decision-making processes and equal employment opportunities, including the employment of both men and women, promotes social justice and strengthens community institutions. While the project may not directly address all aspects of peace, justice, and strong institutions, its contributions to economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion align with the broader objectives of Goal 16,

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Firstly, the project engages with local communities, governments, and non-governmental organizations to identify sustainable solutions and leverage local resources for charcoal briquette production. This collaboration ensures that the project's initiatives are aligned with local needs and priorities, enhancing their effectiveness and sustainability. Secondly, the project may seek partnerships with private sector entities for technology transfer, investment, and market access, thereby promoting innovation and scaling up operations. Lastly, the project may also collaborate with international organizations and donors to access funding, technical expertise, and best practices, enhancing its impact and reach. The Charcoal Flame project exemplifies the spirit of Goal 17 by actively seeking partnerships and alliances to mobilize resources, share knowledge, and achieve common goals for sustainable development.

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

3

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

2

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

2

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

4

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

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

The product/service envisioned by the Charcoal Flame project fills a significant gap in the market by providing clean and sustainable cooking fuel briquettes made from locally available waste materials. Traditional charcoal and firewood are often the primary cooking fuels in many regions, leading to environmental degradation and health risks. By offering an alternative fuel source that addresses these concerns, the project meets a critical need within the community. The utilization of waste materials for briquette production not only reduces waste but also provides an innovative solution to energy challenges. The project's unique approach effectively responds to a demand that has not been fully satisfied by other products or services in the market.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

The main potential competitors might include traditional charcoal producers, other alternative cooking fuel providers, and potentially larger-scale briquette manufacturers. However, what sets the project apart is its focus on sustainability, community engagement, and utilization of locally available waste materials. While traditional charcoal producers may offer similar products, they often rely on unsustainable harvesting practices and may not prioritize environmental or social considerations. Other alternative cooking fuel providers may not utilize waste materials or may not have as strong of a community focus. The larger-scale briquette manufacturers may lack the community connection and environmental sustainability initiatives that my project emphasizes. Overall, the project's commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovative use of local resources sets it apart from potential competitors.

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

Yes, by developed innovative tools to encourage enterprise creation and strengthening by building a growth mindset. As wood industry expart i was able to Encourage the participation of women, youth, and vulnerable groups in wood processing. By create women group, transform them to be SME group then Linking them with financial institutions for loan requesting (example LGAs loan).