Tanzania - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Fermat Energy is an innovative business creation project focused on addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste in Tanzania. The project specializes in utilizing the pyrolysis process to convert plastic waste into cooking gas and diesels.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

PRODUCTION OF DIESEL AND COOKING GAS FROM PLASTIC WASTE. Tanzania's plastic waste crisis is a major issue. In 2018, the country generated 315,000 tonnes of plastic waste. Only 40% of this waste was collected, with just 4% recycled, and 60% left uncollected due to inadequate infrastructure. As a result, 96% of the plastic waste is mismanaged. The pyrolysis process presents an opportunity for managing plastic Pyrolysis is a process that breaks down plastic waste into liquid and gaseous fuel using high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. It can convert used plastics into valuable resources like fuel and other materials. Plastics are made from small building blocks called monomers, through a process called polymerization. Pyrolysis can revert used plastics into valuable resources. Parameters such as heating rate, temperature, type of reactors, residence time, catalyst, types of fluidizing gas, and pressure play a crucial role in optimizing the process and determining the end products.

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

In Tanzania, there is a big problem with managing plastic waste. 96% of it is not managed properly. People all around the world are now focusing on finding green energy solutions that are affordable and do not produce carbon emissions. One promising idea is to turn plastic waste into liquid fuel and cooking gas. This would help with waste management and provide a cheaper alternative to regular fuels and cooking gas. The process for turning plastic waste into fuel mainly uses pyrolysis, focusing on certain types of plastic (PP, PE, PS, and PET). But there are challenges. The liquid fuel produced often has impurities that need to be removed. Also, getting high-quality liquid fuel and higher yield is hard. To fix this, we plan to make changes to the ratio ofamount of plastic and catalyst used, also the design of reactor. We think these changes will help us produce more environmentally friendly fuel, solving the current problems and helping with waste management and green energy production

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. management of plastic wastes in Tanzania. 2. production of cooking gas for Tanzanian. 3. provision of alternative fuel such as diesel at low cost. 4. it helps on environmental preservation. 5. provision of opportunity for tanzanian.

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

1. Rural and Marginalized Communities: By providing affordable clean cooking solutions, we directly benefit households in rural and marginalized areas. These communities gain access to cleaner fuels, improving their health 2. Environment: By recycling plastic waste and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels, our project benefits the environment. It aligns with Tanzania's vision to raise clean cooking energy adoption. 3. Government and Policymakers: Policymakers seeking sustainable waste management solutions benefit from our model. It aligns with waste reduction goals and environmental regulations. 4. Waste Management Systems: Our project relies on efficient plastic waste collection. Waste management systems benefit from increased recycling rates and reduced landfill burden.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-10-22

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

2

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.)

1. ALECK MAULAGA He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Processing Engineering at the University of Dar es Salaam. With 3 years of experience, he has gained a comprehensive understanding of reactor design and performance, as well as the impact of catalysts. In addition, he possesses strong skills in MATLAB, PowerPoint, and various computer software. 2. YOHANA MYENZI He is currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Science program in Textile Engineering at the University of Dar es Salaam. With three years of experience in this field, he possesses a deep understanding of various types of plastic materials and their properties. Furthermore, he has a strong foundation in organic chemistry and insulation materials. Additionally, he has honed his skills in using various computer software.

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

https://www.instagram.com/fermatgaussian/

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

producing cooking gas and diesel from plastic waste through pyrolysis can contribute to the No Poverty goal: 1. Income generation: Plastic pyrolysis can create new jobs in waste collection, plant operation, and fuel distribution. This can provide income opportunities for people living in poverty. 2. Lower energy costs: Pyrolysis-derived fuels like cooking gas and diesel can be cheaper than traditional options, especially in remote areas. This frees up money for families to spend on other necessities. 3. Improved livelihoods: Access to reliable and affordable cooking fuel can improve health and safety in homes. Diesel fuel can also power generators for electricity, which can improve access to education, healthcare, and refrigeration.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

producing cooking gas and diesel from plastic waste through pyrolysis can contribute to Zero Hunger: 1. Reduces plastic waste: Less plastic ends up in landfills or the environment, which can contaminate food sources. 2. Creates alternative fuel sources: Cooking gas produced can be used for cooking food, especially in areas with limited access to conventional fuels. Diesel can be used for transportation, which can improve food distribution networks in remote areas. 3. Potentially lowers fuel costs: Depending on the efficiency of the process, producing fuels from plastic waste could be cheaper than traditional options. This could make fuel more accessible for those struggling to afford it 4. Increased agricultural productivity: Diesel produced from plastic waste can be used to power agricultural machinery and equipment, leading to more efficient farming practices and potentially higher crop yields.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

pyrolysis of plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel can contribute to good health and well-being as follows 1. Cleaner cooking: Reduced indoor air pollution: Cooking with cleaner-burning gas from pyrolysis can reduce exposure to harmful pollutants like smoke from traditional cooking methods (e.g., wood fires), leading to better respiratory health. 2. Improved access to fuel: Reliable cooking: Consistent access to cooking gas ensures hot meals can be prepared properly, potentially reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Better nutrition: Reliable fuel allows for a wider variety of cooking methods, potentially leading to more diverse and nutritious meals. 3. Indirect health benefits: Reduced waste, healthier environment: Less plastic waste in the environment means less potential contamination of soil and water sources, leading to a healthier overall environment. 4. Economic benefits: Job creation and economic development from pyrolysis plants can put more money

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

1. Science and Technology Education: Pyrolysis is a complex process that involves chemistry and engineering principles. The development and implementation of pyrolysis plants could create educational opportunities in these fields. Training programs for technicians to operate and maintain these plants could be established. 2. Environmental Education: Pyrolysis can be a sustainable way to manage plastic waste. Learning about pyrolysis could raise awareness about environmental issues and waste management in schools. This can be part of broader sustainability education programs. 3. Developing new technologies: Students could be exposed to the ongoing research and development in pyrolysis. This can inspire them to pursue careers in science, engineering, and technology to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the process.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

1. Reduced workload for women and girls: Access to cleaner burning cooking gas from pyrolysis can significantly decrease the time and effort women and girls spend collecting firewood and charcoal. This frees up their time for education, income generation, and leisure activities, promoting gender equality in terms of time allocation. 2. Improved health outcomes for women and children: Reduced reliance on traditional cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal leads to better indoor air quality. This can significantly improve respiratory health, especially for women and children who typically spend more time indoors cooking.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Reduced plastic pollution in waterways: By diverting plastic waste from landfills and the environment, pyrolysis can help minimize plastic pollution in rivers, lakes, and oceans. This can improve water quality for drinking, sanitation, and aquatic ecosystems.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

1. Alternative fuel source: Pyrolysis creates usable fuels (cooking gas and diesel) from plastic waste, reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. This can potentially lead to more affordable fuel options, especially in regions lacking easy access to conventional sources. 2. Waste to resource: Turning plastic waste into fuel utilizes a readily available resource that would otherwise clog landfills or pollute the environment. This promotes a circular economy and reduces dependence on virgin fossil fuels. 3. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions: While pyrolysis itself can generate some emissions, replacing fossil fuels with pyrolysis-derived fuels can lead to a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, especially if the plastic waste would otherwise end up in landfills and decompose, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas

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

1. Job creation: Pyrolysis plants require workers for operation and maintenance, creating new employment opportunities in waste management and the clean energy sector. 2. Formalization of the waste sector: Currently, informal waste pickers often handle plastic waste collection. Pyrolysis can encourage the development of formal waste collection systems, improving working conditions and safety for those involved. 3. New revenue streams: The production of cooking gas and diesel from plastic waste creates a new industry with the potential for economic growth and job creation throughout the supply chain.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

1. New Industry: Pyrolysis technology itself is a relatively new industry with ongoing research and development. This fosters innovation in: i. Reactor design for efficiency and emission control ii. Catalyst development for improved fuel quality iii. Feedstock pre-processing techniques for handling different plastic types 2. Advanced Manufacturing: Building and operating pyrolysis plants requires expertise in various engineering fields, promoting advanced manufacturing capabilities. 3. Infrastructure Development: Widespread adoption of pyrolysis may necessitate infrastructure development for: i. Efficient collection and sorting systems for plastic waste ii. Transportation networks to deliver plastic waste to processing facilities iii. Distribution infrastructure for the produced fuels (cooking gas & diesel)

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

1. Waste management: Pyrolysis diverts plastic waste from landfills, reducing the environmental impact of overflowing landfills and creating a more sustainable waste management system. 2. Cleaner air: Replacing traditional fuels like charcoal with pyrolysis-derived cooking gas can significantly improve air quality in cities, leading to better public health. 3. Resource recovery: Turning plastic waste into usable fuels utilizes a valuable resource that would otherwise be lost. This promotes a circular economy within cities, minimizing reliance on virgin materials.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis contributes to ensuring sustainable consumption and production patterns through the circular economy by reducing the amount of plastic waste sent to landfills or incinerated, thus minimizing environmental pollution. This process promotes the reuse of plastic materials, conserves natural resources, and reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional fossil fuel extraction and production. It also supports the efficient use of resources by creating a closed-loop system where plastic waste is transformed into valuable energy products, thereby promoting a more sustainable and circular approach to consumption and production.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

5

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis helps combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Pyrolysis is a process that breaks down plastic at high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, producing useful energy products. By utilizing plastic waste as a feedstock for fuel production, this process reduces the reliance on traditional fossil fuels, which are major contributors to climate change. Additionally, it helps to mitigate the environmental impact of plastic waste by diverting it from landfills and incineration, which release harmful greenhouse gases. Therefore, converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis supports urgent action to combat climate change by reducing emissions and promoting sustainable energy alternatives.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

1. Reduces plastic pollution: By diverting plastic waste from landfills and the environment, pyrolysis helps prevent plastic from reaching oceans and harming marine life. This protects ecosystems and fisheries, crucial for sustainable development. 2. Cleaner beaches and coastlines: Less plastic waste translates to cleaner beaches and coastlines, promoting tourism and recreational activities that rely on healthy marine environments

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis helps to reduce the amount of plastic waste in the environment, thus contributing to the protection and restoration of terrestrial ecosystems. By diverting plastic waste from landfills and incineration, this process helps to sustainably manage forests and combat desertification by reducing the demand for raw materials used in traditional fuel production. Additionally, it helps to halt and reverse land degradation and biodiversity loss by minimizing the environmental impact of plastic pollution. This sustainable approach also promotes the efficient use of resources and supports the transition towards a circular economy.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis can contribute to peace, justice, and strong institutions in the following ways: 1. Peace: By reducing the environmental impact of plastic pollution and promoting sustainable resource management, pyrolysis can help mitigate environmental conflicts and contribute to peaceful coexistence by addressing the root causes of environmental degradation. 2. Justice: The implementation of pyrolysis technology for plastic waste conversion can provide economic opportunities and employment in waste management and recycling sectors, contributing to social justice and equitable access to sustainable livelihoods. 3. Strong Institutions: The adoption of pyrolysis as a waste management solution requires effective governance, regulation, and enforcement to ensure that the process is carried out in an environmentally responsible and socially beneficial manner. This can strengthen institutional capacity and promote good governance

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis strengthens the means of implementation and revitalizes the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development by promoting innovative technologies, encouraging public-private partnerships, fostering knowledge exchange, and supporting sustainable financing. This approach not only addresses the environmental challenge of plastic waste but also contributes to sustainable development goals by creating economic opportunities, promoting investment in environmentally friendly solutions, and enhancing global cooperation and knowledge sharing within the sustainable development partnership.

05.01 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

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

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

5

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

Converting plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel through pyrolysis is a unique and innovative solution for several reasons: 1. Environmental impact: Traditional methods of disposing of plastic waste, such as landfilling or incineration, contribute to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By converting plastic waste into useful fuels like cooking gas and diesel, we can reduce the environmental impact of plastic waste and decrease our reliance on fossil fuels. 2. Resource recovery: Pyrolysis allows us to recover valuable resources from plastic waste that would otherwise be lost. By converting plastic waste into fuels, we can reduce the need for virgin fossil fuels and create a more sustainable energy source. 3. Energy efficiency: Pyrolysis is a relatively energy-efficient process compared to other methods of converting plastic waste into fuel. By using pyrolysis to convert plastic waste into cooking gas and diesel, we can maximize the energy potential of the waste.

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

Competitors are Cooking Gas producer like taifa gas and mihan gas, and diesel sellers. Why I stand out because pyrolysis process is environmental friendly, it's pyrolytic products are cooking gas and diesel which have low cost compared to traditional fuel, also It's boost futures technology and innovation.

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