Ghana - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Ecoplast Tech will transform non-degradable plastic waste and rice husk into eco-friendly interlocking composite pavers. Our project offers a sustainable, durable, and cost-effective green alternative to traditional concrete, and “sand-plastic” pavers.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Ecoplast Tech aims at transforming non-degradable plastic waste and rice husks into interlocking composite pavers. These eco-friendly pavers provide a sustainable, durable, cost-effective alternative to conventional concrete and "sand-plastic" pavers in Ghana. We will partner with local farming communities, waste management companies, public and private institutions and rice mills to procure plastic waste and rice husks. We will manufacture high-quality interlocking pavers for use in driveways, walkways, and public spaces by recycling Our pavers will consist of a composite grid (base) and its complementary interlocking pavers (top) all made from a mixture of recycled plastic and rice husk. This project will significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, minimize landfill waste, and conserve natural resources. Ecoplast Tech will support local waste management efforts by advocating for the use of recycled materials to stimulate economic growth and environmental consciousness.

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

We aim to address two major problems. These are environmental pollution from non-degradable plastic waste and the inefficient disposal of rice husk in Ghana. Plastic waste is a serious environmental issue, causing land and water pollution, harming wildlife, and occupying landfills. Similarly, rice husk is often discarded improperly, leading to waste management challenges. Our project aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We will significantly and directly contribute to: 1. SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities by offering a green alternative to concrete and "sand-plastic" pavers for construction projects. 2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production by reducing waste through innovative recycling practices to promote a circular economy. 3. SDG 13: Climate Action by lowering greenhouse gas emissions by recycling waste materials.

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

Our project offers several benefits and advantages. First, the composite interlocking pavers will significantly reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions by using recycled plastic waste and rice husk to contribute to environmental conservation and support the circular economy. Secondly, our pavers will be relatively durable to withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use, which reduces maintenance costs. Thirdly, their interlocking design makes for easy, customizable and fast installation to lower the cost of labour and transportation. Finally, the project will create 20-30 job opportunities in and within our operational area for the first cycle of operations, from waste collection to manufacturing and installation, stimulating local economic growth and providing sustainable livelihoods while promoting environmental awareness.

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

Our project aims to serve multiple segments of the community. The primary target market is the civil construction industry, municipalities, and individual consumers in need of sustainable, durable, and cost-effective paving solutions. We also target local farming communities and waste management companies that will benefit from the economic opportunities generated through the procurement of recycling of plastic waste and rice husks. Similarly, rice mills will have an avenue to dispose of rice husks sustainably and still earn from it.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-12-21

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

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

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

Mbenjo Agnes is my partner and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at ECOPLAST TECH. She holds a BSc. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Health and Allied Sciences, where she undertook courses in Entrepreneurship, Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Physics, and Organic Chemistry. She is currently doing the mandatory National Service at the Nursing and Midwifery College in Tamale. Typical of most young ladies from farming communities, she has extensive experience in the agricultural value chain of Ghana and the Northern region in particular. She possesses strong leadership skills and has demonstrated the ability to lead teams effectively. Her unique skillset, agricultural experience, and scientific knowledge make her an asset to the partnership.

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?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

The project will create jobs and economic opportunities in Ghana, especially in the Northern region of Ghana, which is considered one of the poorest regions of the country. We will partner with waste management companies, rice mills, and farming communities to generate employment in waste collection, sorting, and production. This will provide reliable income and empower local enterprises. The eco-friendly nature of our practices will support long-term environmental sustainability which is essential to communities dependent on natural resources. Affordable and durable pavers reduce construction costs to enable more extensive development and improvement of essential facilities. Thus, Ecoplast Tech will reduce poverty by creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and providing cheaper construction solutions to enhance economic resilience and quality of life of beneficiary communities.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Although the project does not directly impact food production and distribution, the economic opportunities that will be provided by our enterprise will further stabilize the finances and livelihoods of beneficiary individuals, households and communities. Thus, it will potentially lead to better access to food.

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

5

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Our project helps reduce environmental pollution by recycling waste, which can lead to healthier living conditions. Cleaner environments contribute to better health outcomes for communities.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

ECOPLAST TECH does not primarily focus on education. However, we plan to conduct educational campaigns on recycling and environmental awareness as part of our corporate social responsibility. That will indirectly contribute to community education.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Ecoplast Tech promotes gender equality because the founders are a male and a female. Also, more than half of our workforce will be women. This will include positions in waste collection, sorting, and administrative roles, promoting inclusivity and gender parity in the workplace.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

We help prevent pollution of water sources by reducing plastic waste in our waterbodies to contribute to cleaner water and better sanitation. This will ensure water quality and support sustainable water management.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Our project does not directly focus on energy, but our operations aim to be energy-efficient and sustainable. Future plans may include using renewable energy sources in our production processes.

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

Ecoplast Tech will create several job opportunities to support decent work and ensure economic growth in local communities. We will contribute to long-term economic development by promoting sustainable practices.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Our innovative recycling techniques and production of eco-friendly construction materials support sustainable industrialization. This will foster infrastructure development and promote innovative practices in the construction industry.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

We work towards reducing inequalities and promoting inclusive growth by providing employment opportunities to diverse groups, including women and marginalized groups.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Our eco-friendly pavers contribute to the creation of sustainable urban environments. We help build more sustainable and resilient communities by reducing waste and promoting the use of recycled materials,

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Ecoplast Tech promotes responsible consumption and production by transforming plastic waste and rice husk ash into valuable construction materials. This reduces waste and encourages sustainable use of resources.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Our recycling process reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste decomposition and traditional construction material production. This supports climate action goals by mitigating environmental impact and promoting sustainability.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

We help protect marine ecosystems from pollution by reducing plastic waste. This supports the conservation of oceans, seas, and marine resources, contributing to healthier aquatic environments.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Ecoplast Tech’s efforts in reducing plastic waste help protect terrestrial ecosystems and promote biodiversity. By mitigating pollution, we contribute to healthier natural habitats and wildlife.

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

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

While not directly related to peace and justice, our ethical business practices and community engagement promote social cohesion and trust. We support transparency and fairness in our operations.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Our project relies on strategic partnerships with local farming communities, waste management companies, and rice mills. These collaborations enhance the effectiveness of our recycling efforts and promote shared sustainability goals.

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.

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

2

05.08 Justification

Ecoplast Tech's interlocking composite pavers represent a significant innovation in the construction industry. Our product combines recycled plastic waste and rice husk ash to create durable, eco-friendly paving materials. This approach not only addresses the urgent need for sustainable construction solutions but also leverages waste materials that are abundant yet underutilized. Our product introduces a new technology by integrating these materials in a unique manufacturing process, creating pavers with superior durability and environmental benefits. This is a notable improvement over existing pavers, which typically do not use such sustainable materials. Our pavers also meet an unmet demand for high-quality, eco-friendly construction materials, positioning us uniquely in the market.

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

Our direct competitor is Nelplast Ghana Limited located in the Ashaiman municipality of the Greater Accra region. They produce plastic pavers using a blend of sand and plastics. However, Ecoplast Tech offers a distinct advantage with our interlocking pavers made from recycled plastics and rice chaff. Our pavers offer noteworthy benefits over that of Nelplast. Their snap-together design ensures quicker and easier installation, reducing labour cost. Also, their flexibility adapts well to base movements, minimizing cracking and damage. Our pavers offer a modern aesthetic and enhanced durability with minimal maintenance requirements and a modular design for easy customization. Environmentally, the production of our pavers is highly sustainable, using both recycled plastics and agricultural waste. Their lightweight nature further improves handling and transport efficiency.

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

No