Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Sustain City tackles plastic waste in Accra through education, clean-ups, and innovative recycling. We are building machines for 360-degree recycling to create 3D printing filaments, robotic kits, and prosthetics.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Sustain City is a business venture focused on creating a sustainable environment in Accra through waste management, community engagement, and innovative recycling technologies. We conduct workshops, clean-up events, and training programs to raise awareness and promote sustainable practices. Currently, we are building machines for 360-degree recycling, including plastic shredders, filament extruders, and strip cutters. These machines will transform plastic waste into valuable products like 3D printing filaments, robotic kits, and prosthetics. Our recycling facility will handle various plastic types, ensuring efficient waste repurposing. We plan to scale operations, innovate continuously, and expand our model across Ghana. Support from grants will help us complete our machinery, initiate product production, and significantly impact the environment and community, promoting sustainability and innovation.

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

Plastic waste pollution is an escalating problem in Accra, Ghana, and it poses significant environmental, health, and economic challenges. The city's burgeoning population and rapid urbanization have exacerbated waste management issues, leading to severe consequences for both the natural environment and public health. Environmental Degradation One of the most visible impacts of plastic waste is environmental degradation. Accra's beaches and public spaces are littered with plastic waste, which not only mars the city's aesthetics but also disrupts local ecosystems. Marine life, such as turtles, suffers greatly as plastic waste destroys their nesting spaces and habitats. This ecological imbalance threatens biodiversity and undermines efforts to preserve the natural beauty and ecological health of the region. Health Risks The health implications of plastic waste are dire. Inadequate waste management often leads to the burning of plastic waste, releasing toxic fumes into the atmosphere.

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

Sustain City offers transformative benefits through its innovative approach to plastic waste management. Firstly, by converting plastic waste into valuable products like filaments for 3D printing, educational tools, and prosthetics, we foster a circular economy that reduces environmental impact while meeting community needs. Secondly, our community engagement initiatives and educational programs empower individuals and businesses to adopt sustainable practices, enhancing environmental stewardship and promoting a cleaner, healthier living environment. Lastly, through scalable recycling facilities and ongoing research, we drive economic growth by creating jobs and opportunities in green technology sectors, positioning Accra as a leader in sustainable development regionally and globally.

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

The targeted beneficiaries of Sustain City's initiatives include diverse groups across Accra and surrounding areas. Firstly, local communities benefit through cleaner environments and improved public health from reduced plastic pollution. Schools and universities gain educational resources and workshops that promote environmental awareness and sustainability practices among students. Small businesses and entrepreneurs receive training on integrating sustainable methods, potentially lowering operational costs and enhancing market appeal. Additionally, individuals with disabilities benefit from affordable prosthetics made from recycled plastics, improving their quality of life. Overall, government agencies benefit from reduced waste management costs and enhanced environmental stewardship, while NGOs gain collaborative opportunities to amplify impact. Together, these beneficiaries contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future for Accra and beyond.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-10-01

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

2

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

3

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

Academic City University: brings academic excellence to Sustain City, collaborating on innovative research and educational programs. Their expertise informs our recycling technologies and community workshops, ensuring our initiatives are scientifically grounded. Mckingtorch Africa: strategically partners with Sustain City, focusing on climate policy influence, circular economy practices, and innovative products from plastic waste. They advocate for sustainable policies, facilitate global research partnerships, and enhance our training programs and public installations, amplifying our impact on environmental sustainability and community engagement.

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

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

Sustain City contributes to the goal of eradicating poverty by creating economic opportunities through sustainable practices. By training local entrepreneurs and small businesses in waste management and recycling technologies, we empower them to develop eco-friendly products and services, potentially increasing their income and creating jobs. Our initiatives also aim to lower production costs for essential items like prosthetics and construction materials made from recycled plastics, making them more accessible to low-income communities. Through these efforts, Sustain City fosters economic growth, promotes inclusive development, and contributes to poverty reduction in Accra and beyond.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Sustain City indirectly contributes to the zero hunger goal by promoting sustainable practices that can enhance food security. By reducing plastic pollution and improving environmental health, our initiatives support agricultural productivity and food safety. Additionally, our focus on community engagement and education includes promoting sustainable farming practices that can increase yields and resilience to climate change, thereby ensuring more stable food production. Moreover, by creating economic opportunities and reducing poverty, we contribute to improving household food security and nutrition outcomes. Through these integrated efforts, Sustain City plays a role in advancing the zero hunger goal by fostering a healthier and more sustainable food system in Accra and its surrounding areas.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Sustain City contributes significantly to the goal of promoting good health and well-being through its initiatives. By reducing plastic waste and environmental pollution, we improve air and water quality, which directly impacts public health positively. Cleaner environments lead to fewer respiratory illnesses and waterborne diseases, enhancing overall community well-being. Additionally, our focus on recycling plastics into useful products like prosthetics promotes accessibility to affordable healthcare solutions, improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, our educational workshops and community clean-up events foster awareness about environmental health, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices and community engagement. In sum, Sustain City's holistic approach contributes to advancing good health and well-being by creating cleaner, safer environments and promoting sustainable practices that benefit the entire community in Accra and beyond.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Sustain City contributes to the goal of quality education by providing educational resources and workshops focused on environmental sustainability. Through our programs in schools and universities, we educate students about the environmental impact of plastic pollution, proper waste management, and innovative recycling practices. By raising awareness and fostering a culture of sustainability, we empower future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to protect the environment and build a sustainable future. Additionally, our initiatives to produce educational tools from recycled plastics support STEM education, making learning resources more accessible and affordable. By integrating sustainability into education, Sustain City helps promote quality education that prepares students to address global challenges and contribute positively to their communities.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Sustain City contributes to gender equality by promoting inclusive participation and empowerment within its initiatives. We ensure equal opportunities for women and men in training programs, entrepreneurship opportunities, and leadership roles within our organization. By actively involving women in decision-making processes and providing them with skills in waste management and recycling technologies, we empower them economically and socially. Additionally, our educational workshops and community engagement activities are designed to reach all members of the community, including women and girls, to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and their roles in protecting the environment. Through these efforts, Sustain City fosters gender equality by promoting equal access to resources, opportunities, and leadership roles, contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society in Accra and beyond.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Sustain City indirectly contributes to clean water and sanitation by reducing plastic pollution and improving overall environmental health. Plastic waste often contaminates water sources and affects sanitation facilities. By implementing comprehensive waste management solutions and promoting recycling practices, we mitigate the pollution that threatens water quality. Our community clean-up events also help remove plastic waste from beaches, parks, and public spaces, reducing the risk of contamination and improving sanitation conditions. Additionally, our educational workshops raise awareness about the importance of clean water and sanitation, encouraging communities to protect water sources and maintain hygienic practices. Through these efforts, Sustain City supports the goal of clean water and sanitation by creating cleaner environments and promoting sustainable practices that safeguard water resources and improve sanitation facilities in Accra and its surrounding areas.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

5

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Sustain City contributes to the goal of affordable and clean energy through its focus on sustainable practices and innovative recycling technologies. By reducing plastic waste and promoting recycling, we indirectly contribute to environmental sustainability, which is crucial for clean energy production. Our initiatives aim to lower environmental impact, which can support renewable energy development by reducing overall energy consumption and promoting efficient resource management. Additionally, our educational programs raise awareness about energy conservation and sustainable practices, encouraging communities to adopt clean energy solutions. By integrating these efforts, Sustain City supports the goal of affordable and clean energy by promoting environmental stewardship and fostering a shift towards cleaner energy sources in Accra and beyond.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

5

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Sustain City actively contributes to decent work and economic growth by creating job opportunities and promoting sustainable economic practices. Through our training programs in waste management and recycling technologies, we equip local entrepreneurs and small businesses with the skills needed to participate in the green economy. By developing value-added products from recycled plastics, such as educational tools and prosthetics, we stimulate economic activity and foster innovation in Accra. Additionally, our initiatives aim to reduce poverty by providing affordable resources and improving market opportunities for sustainable products. By promoting inclusive economic growth and entrepreneurship, Sustain City supports the goal of decent work and economic growth, ensuring that economic development is sustainable and benefits all members of the community.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

5

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Sustain City drives innovation in recycling technologies, developing machines for comprehensive plastic waste management. By creating sustainable infrastructure and fostering green industry practices, we promote economic growth aligned with environmental stewardship.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Our initiatives empower marginalized communities through education, training, and economic opportunities in sustainable practices. By promoting inclusivity and equal access to resources, we aim to reduce inequalities and ensure all individuals benefit from our programs.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Sustain City enhances urban sustainability by reducing plastic waste through community clean-up events and recycling initiatives. By promoting responsible waste management and fostering environmental awareness, we contribute to building resilient and sustainable cities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

We promote responsible consumption by transforming plastic waste into valuable products like educational tools and prosthetics. By advocating for recycling and sustainable manufacturing, we reduce waste generation and promote efficient resource use.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Sustain City mitigates climate change impacts by reducing plastic pollution and promoting eco-friendly practices. Our efforts in recycling and environmental education contribute to carbon footprint reduction and resilience building against climate impacts.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

By preventing plastic waste from entering water bodies, Sustain City protects marine ecosystems. Through community engagement and waste management solutions, we strive to preserve biodiversity and ensure healthier oceans.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Our initiatives preserve terrestrial ecosystems by reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainable land use practices. By converting plastic waste into useful products and promoting reforestation, we support biodiversity conservation and ecosystem health.

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

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Sustain City promotes peace by addressing environmental challenges through inclusive community engagement and sustainable development. By fostering transparency and accountability in waste management, we contribute to building strong institutions for environmental governance.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Sustain City contributes significantly to the Partnership for Goals (SDG 17) by fostering collaborative efforts and partnerships that strengthen our impact on sustainable development. We collaborate with Academic City University and Mckingtorch Africa to leverage academic research, policy influence, and innovative solutions in plastic waste management. These partnerships enhance our ability to implement effective recycling technologies, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. By working together with diverse stakeholders, we promote sustainable practices, advocate for policy changes, and scale our impact regionally and globally, aligning with the UN's goal of fostering partnerships 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.

2

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

5

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.

2

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

2

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.

2

05.08 Justification

Sustain City pioneers innovation in sustainable waste management with our cutting-edge recycling technologies: customized plastic shredders and filament extruders. These solutions meet rising demands for efficient plastic waste processing, converting it into 3D printing filaments and prosthetics. This addresses unmet needs for sustainable products while fostering economic growth and environmental stewardship. Our integrated approach ensures we lead in delivering impactful, scalable solutions that cater to evolving customer needs in Accra and beyond.

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

In the realm of sustainable waste management and recycling initiatives in Accra and its environs, Sustain City faces competition from various organizations and businesses with similar goals. However, what sets Sustain City apart is its comprehensive approach, innovative technologies, strong community engagement, impactful social initiatives, and commitment to scalability and sustainability. Sustain City distinguishes itself through a holistic approach that addresses the issue of plastic waste from multiple angles. We not only focus on recycling but also emphasize education and community involvement. Our educational workshops in schools, universities, and community centers raise awareness about plastic pollution and the importance of proper waste management. These efforts empower individuals with the knowledge and motivation to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship at the grassroots level.

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

Yes, Sustain City actively promotes the role of female entrepreneurs through our training programs and business initiatives. We provide equal opportunities for women in leadership roles, offer specialized training in sustainable practices, and advocate for gender equality in entrepreneurship. By fostering an inclusive environment and empowering female entrepreneurs, we aim to contribute to economic growth and social equity in our community.