Ghana - Startup under 3 years old

Describe your project or startup in a few words

We convert plastic waste into durable bricks for building sanitation facilities in schools and communities. This innovative approach improves hygiene, creates jobs and promotes environmental sustainability through waste recycling and community involvement

01.01 Describe your startup in more detail

TrashSmart is a waste management startup focused on repurposing waste into valuable materials. Our core product is durable, modular bricks made from recycled plastic, used primarily for building sanitation facilities in schools and communities. By addressing the critical lack of sanitation infrastructure, especially in rural areas, we improve hygiene, health, and educational outcomes, particularly benefiting female students. Also, Our business model operates in three phases: Firstly, collecting plastic waste using local labor and digital tools. Secondly converting the waste into bricks with our innovative technology, and thirdly constructing sanitation facilities that are quicker and cheaper to assemble than traditional methods. We actively involve local communities in the collection and construction processes, fostering job creation and community ownership. Our participation in UNICEF Startup Labsmprovided invaluable support and guidance enabling us to refine and scale our solution.

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

The primary problem our business addresses is the severe lack of sanitation infrastructure in schools and rural communities in Ghana. Approximately 20,000 public primary schools and communities outside the capital region lack adequate washroom facilities. Of these, 7,400 schools are in dire need, causing significant challenges for students, especially girls, who often miss school during menstruation due to the absence of proper facilities. In rural and developing communities, about 12,600 lack sufficient washroom facilities, leading to open defecation and the use of overcrowded, poorly maintained public toilets. This situation results in serious public health issues, environmental pollution, and increased safety concerns for women and girls. The lack of sanitation infrastructure undermines health, dignity, education, and economic development, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

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

By installing proper washroom facilities in schools and communities, we reduce the incidence of sanitation-related diseases, enhancing overall health and well-being.Also, our services ensure that students, particularly girls, have access to clean and private sanitation facilities. This reduces absenteeism during menstruation and helps them attend classes regularly. Again, we use recycled plastic waste to create bricks for building sanitation facilities, thus reducing plastic pollution and promoting a circular economy. At the end of their lifespan, these bricks can be recycled back into the feedstock for new bricks, further enhancing sustainability. The advantage we have over competitors is our unique combination of innovative technology, community involvement, and positive environmental impact. Our bricks require less time to construct, speeding up project completion, and offer a more affordable alternative to cement bricks, making us a cost effective and eco-friendly choice

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

Our startup's product and services are aimed at several key groups 1.Primary School Students and Teachers: In Ghana, about 20,000 public primary schools lack proper sanitation infrastructure, with 7,400 schools in dire need of washroom facilities. Our solutions provide clean, accessible, and safe sanitation facilities, reducing absenteeism and improving educational outcomes. 2.Rural and Developing Communities- We target around 12,600 rural and developing communities without proper washroom facilities. 3. Local Governments and NGOs: We collaborate with local governments and NGOs focused on improving sanitation and public health. Our innovative approach supports their efforts to provide sustainable infrastructure and promote better health outcomes.4 4.Construction Sector: Our eco-friendly bricks made from recycled plastic waste attract builders and developers focused on sustainable practices, offering a cost-effective and durable alternative to traditional materials.

01.05 When was your company established?

2022-11-08

01.06 Are you already selling your product/service?

No

01.07 How many other owners are there within your startup?

1

01.08 Among the other owners, how many are female?

1

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

1. Afua Asarebea Opare- Baidu has 7 years of working experience working as a general manager as well as personal assistant and business development personnel in 3 startups before starting TrashSmart. She also has a Bachelor's degree in Resource Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. 2. Kwabena Opare-Baidu: MSc. Construction management. Has working experience of 5 years making him valuable to our construction phases of the washroom. 3. Kweku Ankrah Lartey a certified project manager and has 9 years working experience in sales, operations and marketing fields. He is currently the Business development lead in TrashSmart. 4. Priscilla Otoo: Bsc. Environmental Engineering and a certified BOSH practioner. She has 5 years working experience in the field and currently is the Health, safety and environment lead of TrashSmart.

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

https://www.trashsmart.org/ , https://www.instagram.com/trash_smart?igsh=MWxwN2djdTF1cXdseA==, https://www.linkedin.com/company/trashsmart/, https://x.com/_TrashSmart?t=2R8bO9ZPdN1jVwrxVctlIQ&s=08

01.11 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: Circular economy: Waste management and construction.

02.01.01 My startup contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification for my startup

While I rated "5" for the extent to which my startup contributes to the No poverty goal, our initiative aids in poverty alleviation by creating job opportunities, particularly within underserved communities. By engaging locals in waste collection, brick production, and construction, we provide sustainable income sources, empowering individuals and families to improve their economic status and break the cycle of poverty. Through job creation and community involvement, we strive to foster inclusive growth and contribute to poverty reduction efforts in our region.

02.02.01 My startup contributes to the Zero hunger goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification for my startup

N/A

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

4

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

While I rated "4" for my startup's contribution to the Good health and well-being goal, our initiative indirectly supports this goal by improving sanitation infrastructure in schools and communities. By providing access to proper sanitation facilities, we aim to enhance hygiene practices, reduce the spread of diseases, and ultimately contribute to better health outcomes for individuals, especially children and vulnerable populations. Additionally, our focus on community involvement and empowerment fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for maintaining clean and healthy environments, further promoting well-being at the local level.

02.04.01 My startup contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification for my startup

We believe that by incorporating educational components into our sanitation initiatives, we can empower students with essential knowledge and skills related to hygiene practices, environmental conservation, and sustainable development. Through workshops, awareness campaigns, and practical demonstrations, we aim to not only improve sanitation but also foster a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing within the communities we serve. By promoting education alongside our sanitation efforts, we contribute to the broader goal of achieving inclusive and equitable quality education for all, thus creating a more sustainable and empowered future generation.

02.05.01 My startup contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification for my startup

I rated "6" for my startup's contribution to the Gender equality goal because we prioritize empowering women and girls through our initiatives. By actively involving women in our waste collection, brick production, and community engagement activities, we promote gender inclusivity and economic empowerment. Additionally, our sanitation projects directly address challenges faced by girls, such as access to safe and hygienic facilities, thereby promoting gender equality in education. Through these efforts, we strive to create a more equitable society where women and girls have equal opportunities to participate and thrive.

02.06.01 My startup contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification for my startup

I rated "7 - Strongly Agree" for my startup's contribution to the Clean water and sanitation goal because it lies at the core of our mission. We are dedicated to providing innovative sanitation solutions that ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all. By repurposing plastic waste into durable bricks for sanitation infrastructure, we address the critical need for sustainable management of resources. Our initiatives not only improve sanitation but also promote water conservation and environmental sustainability, contributing to the broader goal of ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for communities in need.

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

N/A

02.08.01 My startup contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification for my startup

I rated "6" for my startup's contribution to the Decent work and economic growth goal because we prioritize job creation and economic empowerment in our initiatives. By involving local communities in waste collection, brick production, and construction, we create employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth at the grassroots level. Additionally, our focus on sustainable sanitation solutions fosters long-term economic development by improving public health, enhancing productivity, and reducing healthcare costs. Through our efforts, we aim to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth while ensuring decent work opportunities for all stakeholders involved.

02.09.01 My startup contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification for my startup

I rated "7" for my startup's contribution to the Industry innovation and infrastructure goal because we utilize innovative technology and sustainable practices to address infrastructure challenges. Our use of recycled plastic waste for brick production not only reduces environmental pollution but also promotes the development of sustainable infrastructure. By incorporating digital tools and community involvement in our processes, we foster innovation and resilience in the construction sector. Moreover, our approach contributes to the creation of inclusive and sustainable industrialization by promoting local economic development and empowering communities through job creation and skill development initiatives.

02.10.01 My startup contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

4

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification for my startup

I rated "4" for my startup's contribution to the Reduced inequalities goal because while we aim to provide access to sanitation infrastructure and employment opportunities, there may still be disparities in access and benefits across different communities. Although we strive for inclusivity and community engagement, there may be challenges in reaching marginalized groups or addressing deep-rooted inequalities. However, through our efforts to involve local communities and promote ownership, we aim to mitigate inequalities and create more equitable outcomes in the areas where we operate.

02.11.01 My startup contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification for my startup

I rated "5" for my startup's contribution to the Sustainable cities and communities goal because while we aim to improve sanitation infrastructure and promote sustainability, our impact may vary depending on the scale and scope of our projects. While we strive to create inclusive, safe, and sustainable environments, achieving these goals requires collaboration with various stakeholders and addressing broader urban development challenges. However, through our efforts to integrate sustainable practices and engage local communities, we contribute to building more resilient and livable cities and communities.

02.12.01 My startup contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

1 - Strongly Disagree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification for my startup

N/A

02.13.01 My startup contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification for my startup

I rated "6 - Agree" for my startup's contribution to the Climate action goal because our initiative directly addresses environmental challenges by repurposing plastic waste into construction materials. By diverting plastic from landfills and reducing the demand for traditional building materials like cement, we help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Additionally, our focus on sustainable practices and community involvement promotes environmental awareness and encourages actions that contribute to climate resilience.

02.14.01 My startup contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification for my startup

I rated "5 -somewhat Agree" for my startup's contribution to the Life below water goal because while our primary focus is on land-based plastic waste management, our efforts indirectly contribute to protecting marine ecosystems. By reducing the amount of plastic waste entering water bodies, we help prevent marine pollution and its adverse impacts on ocean health. Additionally, our emphasis on sustainability and circular economy principles align with broader initiatives aimed at conserving marine resources and promoting responsible use of oceans and seas.

02.15.01 My startup contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification for my startup

I rated "6 - Agree" for my startup's contribution to the Life on land goal because our focus on recycling plastic waste directly contributes to reducing land pollution and promoting sustainable land use. By repurposing plastic waste into durable bricks for construction, we help mitigate the need for traditional building materials like cement, which often involves the extraction of natural resources and can lead to land degradation. Additionally, our efforts in waste management and community engagement contribute to raising awareness about the importance of preserving terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity.

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

2

02.16.02 Peace Justice and Strong Institutions- Justification for my startup

N/A

02.17.01 My startup contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification for my startup

I selected "5- Agree" because while our startup actively seeks collaborations and partnerships with various stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and governmental bodies, to enhance the impact and reach of our initiatives, there is still room for further improvement and expansion of our partnership network. We recognize the importance of partnerships in achieving our sustainability goals and are committed to continually strengthening and diversifying our collaborations to maximize our collective impact.

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

2

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

06.08 Justification for my startup

I agreed with statements 06.02, 06.04, 06.06, and 06.07. Our project idea is unique and innovative because it introduces a novel approach to addressing the critical issue of plastic waste management while simultaneously addressing the sanitation infrastructure deficit in underserved communities. By repurposing plastic waste into durable bricks for building sanitation facilities, we offer a sustainable solution that not only mitigates environmental pollution but also creates economic opportunities and improves public health. This innovative approach responds to a pressing need that has not been adequately addressed by existing products or services, making our startup idea both impactful and pioneering in its field.

06.09 Competitive Analysis

Our main potential competitors include cement brick manufacturers, waste management companies, and other organizations offering sanitation solutions. However, what sets us apart is our innovative approach of repurposing plastic waste into durable bricks specifically designed for building sanitation facilities. Unlike cement brick manufacturers, we address both the plastic waste crisis and the sanitation infrastructure deficit simultaneously, offering a unique and sustainable solution. Additionally, our focus on community involvement, job creation, and environmental stewardship distinguishes us from generic waste management companies. Moreover, at the end of the brick lifespan, it can be reused as feedstock, thus completing a circular economy loop. Furthermore, our bricks significantly reduce building time compared to conventional methods, making our solution efficient and cost-effective.

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

Yes, we are actively promoting the role of female entrepreneurs through initiatives closely related to our plastic waste and recycling project. Skills Training Workshops: We partner with local NGOs focused on women's empowerment to deliver joint programs that support female entrepreneurs in the recycling industry. These workshops empower women with the knowledge and skills needed to start and manage businesses in the recycling sector, such as creating products from recycled plastics or running waste collection services. Community Engagement and Awareness: We hold community events and forums to raise awareness about the importance of female entrepreneurship within the recycling industry. These events highlight success stories of women who have successfully launched ventures in waste collection, recycling, and upcycling. Our own business model includes proactive measures to hire and promote women within our team, ensuring gender diversity at all levels of our organisation.