Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Organic waste disposal and ease of transportation are some of the major issues in Tanzania. The EcoMotive BioDrive project aims to convert organic waste into renewable fuel (biomethane) for public and private transport operators and vehicle owners.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

EcoMotive BioDrive aims to reduce both environmental and transportation challenges in Tanzania. Mitigation of environmental challenges like organic waste disposal and carbon emissions will be achieved through the anaerobic digestion of environmental organic waste into renewable fuel, providing a clean and sustainable alternative fuel source for vehicles, and mitigating transportation challenges in Tanzania. The renewable fuel will either be distributed directly by the project through the construction of biomethane filling stations or indirectly through partnerships with other companies, like TAQA Arabia, which launched the “Master Gas” CNG filling station in November 2023 around the Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. By promoting the operation of biomethane-fueled transportation, we won't sacrifice the potential of future generations to satisfy their own needs while we meet the demands of the present by contributing to a cleaner environment and cleaner energy.

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

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project aims to mitigate transportation challenges in Tanzania, like expensive fuel prices and carbon emissions, by ensuring the steady supply of a low-priced, renewable, clean vehicle fuel (biomethane). Through anaerobic respiration of environmental organic waste, we will convert the organic waste into biogas and a nutrient-rich fertilizer (digestate). The collected biogas will be further purified into biomethane, which will be supplied and used as an alternative source of fuel for vehicles.  The project will also mitigate the negative impacts of organic waste pollution in the environment, for example, greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change; water pollution in ways that harm aquatic ecosystems and human health; the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to soil pollution and smog formation; the release of pathogens into the air that can pose health risks to both humans and animals; and many others.

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

The products produced from this project, like biomethane, have the following major benefits in environmental, economic, and social aspects: Environmental benefits include reduced greenhouse gas emissions and the capture of methane. Also improved air quality as a result of lower pollutants and reduced smog formation. Economic benefits include cost savings, as biomethane costs more cheaper than fossil fuels, and local economic development occurs through job creation. Social benefits include waste management, which will improve public health and quality of life and, thus, ensure energy accessibility in rural areas. Also, there are operational and technical benefits, including compatibility with existing infrastructure, like natural gas grid injection of biomethane, and high energy efficiency through efficient combustion and engine performance.

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

The EcoMotive BioDrive project is aimed at serving the Tanzanian population at large through recycling of organic waste, providing an alternative source of fuel that is clean and affordable, and promoting environmental health. The project's impact will reach both rural and urban communities, benefiting local farmers and the agricultural sector through economic opportunities and sustainable agriculture, the transport sector, and government and policymakers through energy security and climate commitments. Investors and entrepreneurs will also benefit from developing new startups or businesses related to biogas production, like injection in the natural gas grid, electricity production, etc., and finding new opportunities in the growing market for renewable energies. Also, environmental organizations and advocates will benefit as the projects align with the goals of environmental organizations, and the organizations can use this project as a case study.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2022-12-09

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

0

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

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

Non

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

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-marcel-186867257/

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

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

EcoMotive BioDrive ensures no poverty goal by creating economic opportunities to entrepreneurs and local employment opportunities since the process of production, storage, and distribution of biomethane requires manpower, as well as cost and energy savings since biomethane is cheaper than other fuels. It also ensures income generation for farmers and the food sector from selling their agricultural residues or organic waste and enhances crop yield due to the use of digestate as fertilizer, a biomethane by-product. The improvement of air quality by reducing the emission of greenhouse gases leads to better health outcomes and reduces medical expenses for poor communities. In conclusion, the EcoMotive BioDrive contributes to the no-poverty goal in several dimensions, including creating economic opportunities, improving agricultural productivity, reducing energy costs, enhancing environmental health, and reducing medical expenses.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by improving agricultural productivity through the use of digestate as fertilizer, which is the product of biomethane production. Enhancing food security and stable supply due to an increase in agricultural productivity and the use of biomethane as fuel in trucks that transport harvest crops from the farm to other areas, ensuring sustainable organic farming practices by reducing the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and reducing environmental pollution, which can negatively affect food production and quality,. In conclusion, the EcoMotive BioDrive project supports the Zero Hunger goal by enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices, improving nutrition, generating economic benefits for farmers, and improving food security through the management of organic waste and the use of digestate as fertilizer. 

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive project contributes to the good health and well-being goal by reducing environmental organic waste pollution through anaerobic respiration of organic waste into renewable energy, and the use of this renewable energy (biomethane) leads to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to petrol and/or diesel. When organic wastes are left to break down in an open environment, it leads to the release of greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane that cause climate change, air pollution, and water pollution in ways that harm aquatic ecosystems and human health. Also, the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to soil pollution and smog formation,  the release of pathogens into the air that can pose health risks to both humans and animals, and many others. The distribution of the project's by-product (digestate) as fertilizer instead of synthetic fertilizer in agriculture reduces health and environmental concerns.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive project contributes to the quality education goal by providing educational opportunities and training through capacity training, workshops and training programs, and community outreach and awareness. Also, support for educational infrastructure (schools) to use biogas for cooking; hence, providing health learning environments for students. Collaboration with educational institutions helps integrate sustainability into the curriculum.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive project aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls through employment opportunities for women, provide them with stable and fair employment, and implement policies that encourage equal opportunities for women in all roles, including leadership positions. Also, by developing and enforcing policies that promote gender equality, such as maternity leave, equal pay, and anti-discrimination measures within the project, economic empowerment will enable women to collect for their own businesses or sell organic waste into the project. And, by providing training programs specifically for women and teaching them about renewable energy technologies and biogas production, especially in rural areas where firewood is mostly used for cooking, we can improve their health and safety.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive project aims to achieve clean water and sanitation for all by improving waste management through efficient waste utilization, reducing pollution of water with greenhouse gases by diverting organic waste from landfills and converting it into renewable energy, and enhancing sanitation through hygienic disposal of organic waste, reducing the spread of pathogens and diseases. Also, the use of the project's by-product (digestate) in agriculture instead of synthetic fertilizer leads to a reduction of nutrient runoff into waterways and reduces the use of water in agriculture as digestate improves soil structure and water retention capacity. Educational and community engagement in the proper ways to dispose of and collect organic waste to prevent landfills from leading to the release of greenhouse gases; hence, mitigating climate change, which is crucial for maintaining a reliable water supply.

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 EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to the clean and affordable energy goal through the production and purification of biogas into biomethane, which will either be distributed directly by the project or indirectly by being sold to other companies.The use of biomethane as an alternative vehicle fuel helps reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) and other harmful emissions, contributing to cleaner air, a lower carbon footprint, and mitigating climatic changes; thus, cleaner energy. Biomethane can be cheaper than conventional fossil fuels like gasoline and diesel, making it an affordable alternative for transportation and other energy needs. The production of biomethane locally from organic waste reduces dependence on imported fuels, leading to more stable and predictable energy costs. By converting organic waste into a valuable energy source, we will maximize resource efficiency and promote a circular economy, ensuring energy access and security.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to decent work and economic growth goals through job creation with equal opportunities for both men and/or women, fair treatment, fair pay, and work-life balance. Also, creating economic opportunities for the local community through income generation, where local farmers and households can earn income by supplying organic waste to biogas plants, and the growth of other businesses that provide services or products related to biomethane production and use. The project promotes sustainable practices like organic waste management, which contributes to overall well-being and economic stability, and sustainable farming practices through the use of digestate as fertilizer, enhancing soil health and agricultural productivity.  The project ensures economic growth in a way that benefits everyone without harming the environment, ensuring that future generations can also benefit, and encouraging innovation and the productivity of new ideas.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to industry innovation and infrastructure in several ways, including waste management systems for processing organic waste and the development of biogas production and purification facilities that are less vulnerable to disruptions compared to centralized fossil fuel systems. Also, by integrating biomethane into existing transport fueling stations, for example, the “Master Gas” CNG filling station around the Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, we strengthen the infrastructure needed to support sustainable transportation. The project promotes inclusive and sustainable industrialization by promoting the use of biogas over fossil fuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. The use of digestate as a fertilizer exemplifies a circular economy approach and encourages the growth of other businesses that supply organic waste or provide services related to biomethane technology.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to reducing inequality through equal employment opportunities for both men and women, helping to lift people out of poverty. Also, enable access to affordable fuel, reduce transportation costs for individuals or businesses, and enhance energy security and economic stability. Through the management of environmental organic waste pollution, people living in rural and/or urban areas will have healthier living conditions while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. Equal food distribution, due to the use of digestate as fertilizer in agriculture, will increase soil fertility, increasing agricultural productivity. The project encourages global partnership, facilitating the transfer of technology, the sharing of knowledge and expertise, and best practices for ensuring a circular economy. 

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to sustainable cities and communities through environmental organic waste management, improving the cleanliness and hygiene of cities and communities while also mitigating organic waste pollution-related problems like ordor and pest control and greenhouse gas emissions. Provides a sustainable and affordable source of fuel, which improves air quality within the cities and reduces the incidence of respiratory diseases and other health issues related to air pollution, as it helps to lower the overall carbon footprint of transportation. Also, the creation of job opportunities for men and women will support economic inclusion, provide livelihoods for urban populations, and raise awareness about sustainable practices and renewable energy.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to responsible consumption and production through a circular economy, which involves the production of renewable fuel from organic waste. The anaerobic respiration of organic waste like agricultural residue leads to the production of biogas, which, under further purification, leads to the production of biomethane, which can be used as an alternative fuel in transportation. The specific ways in which this project contributes to this goal are organic waste reduction, resource efficiency, and renewable energy production, mitigating environmental impacts like greenhouse gas emissions. Also, it ensures nutrient recycling through the use of digestate as fertilizer, which in turn improves agricultural productivity and promotes sustainable agriculture. Encourages sustainable consumption by providing education on the use of biomethane as an alternative transportation fuel and demonstrating the value of converting organic waste into fuel.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project addresses climate change in several ways, including mitigating organic waste management, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing the reliance on fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel, lowering carbon footprints, and ensuring methane capture through the production and use of biomethane as an alternative fuel in transportation. The emission of greenhouse gases leads to several climatic changes, such as loss of biodiversity, global warming, oceanic acidification, melting polar ice, and changes in rain patterns, affecting agriculture. The project is an extensive approach that not only mitigates the immediate impacts of climate change but also contributes to long-term environmental sustainability and community resilience. Through its innovative use of biomethane, the project exemplifies how urgent climate action can be effectively integrated into practical, community-based solutions.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to the life below water goal by conserving marine resources through the availability of biomethane as an alternative source of fuel in transportation, reducing the dependence on fossil fuels like petrol and diesel, which contribute to ocean acidification and climate change. It also benefits marine ecosystems and biodiversity by preventing eutrophication and the formation of algal blooms. Also, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the capture of biomethane to be used as fuel and reducing the emission of carbon dioxide, and by using the project's by-product (digestate) in agriculture instead of synthetic fertilizer, which improves the soil structure and reduces nutrient runoff into waterways. The project ensures good water quality since decomposing organic matter can make water turbid (cloudy), reduce light penetration, affect photosynthesis in aquatic plants, and release harmful toxins to marine organisms.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to the life on land goal by promoting eco-friendly practices through the use of biomethane as a renewable energy source, which stops biodiversity loss by protecting and restoring natural habitats, thus supporting diverse ecosystems while ensuring sustainable management of forests and combating desertification by reducing the reliance on fossil fuels, thus decreasing deforestation and unsustainable land use practices. Also, the project stops and reverses land degradation through the use of the project's by-product (digestate) in agriculture as fertilizer.  By reducing organic waste in the environment, the project mitigates different effects of organic waste in landfills, like a bad smell, methane emissions, and pest attraction leading to disease outbreaks. This project ensures the restoration and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems and promotes environmental conservation and sustainable development.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to the peace, justice, and strong institutions goal by enabling social inclusion in the project through creating new job opportunities and economic growth for both genders while ensuring peace within society. By converting organic waste into biomethane, the project mitigates various diseases and environmental issues, ensuring peace in society. For example, organic waste attracts pests like rodents and insects that carry diseases such as cholera and can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause illness. Also, the use of biomethane as a renewable energy source will mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which can lead to resource conflict and instability. The project's sustainable practices encourage the development of effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels, ensuring that individuals have equal access to the law, justice systems, and human rights.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project contributes to partnerships for the goal by ensuring compliance among national policies and international frameworks, increasing financial resources by attracting private sector investment, and utilizing official development assistance (ODA). Also, through training programs and technology transfer; training and educating local communities and farmers on sustainable organic waste management practices; and facilitating the transfer of biomethane technology and best practices from more developed regions to local regions. Building multi-partnerships among international organizations and other stakeholders so as to mobilize resources, share knowledge, and promote sustainable development. Data monitoring and accountability by establishing a powerful monitoring and reporting system, including data collection and analysis, while ensuring transparency in operations and reporting progress to stakeholders, building trust and accountability.

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

5

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

6

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

6

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

6

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

6

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

6

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

6

05.08 Justification

The EcoMotive BioDrive startup project is unique and innovative since, currently, there are no specific large-scale projects that directly produce biomethane from organic waste in Tanzania. While there are several biogas projects in Tanzania, these typically focus on producing biogas for cooking and electricity generation rather than purifying it into biomethane. The project is also unique and innovative in different ways, including the reduction of organic waste that ends up in landfills. Turning this organic waste into biomethane reduces the amount of organic waste and keeps the environment clean. Also, the production of biomethane from organic waste is cost-effective, which can help save money for families, businesses, and the government. Furthermore, using sustainable energy enables the project to have environmental benefits, like reducing greenhouse gas emissions, which mitigates climate change, and it ensures the availability of job opportunities for both genders.

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

Currently, there are no specific large-scale projects that directly produce biomethane from organic waste in Tanzania; this means my project has no other competitors in biomethane production. But the potential competitors are organic waste management businesses, which handle organic waste but might use it for different purposes, and traditional energy companies, which produce energy from non-renewable sources like oil or compressed natural gas. What makes my project stand out from them is sustainability—that is, the process of producing and using biomethane is environmentally friendly, minimizing waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Also, the project enables a circular economy, cost-effectiveness through offering biomethane at a lower price due to better technology, and positive community impacts like creating jobs and supporting local farmers with their agricultural residues. Furthermore, we might use a more efficient technology that produces biomethane more cost-effectively.

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

No