Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

This project involves the production of Charcoal briquette from municipal waste such as saw dust and wood chips, agricultural waste such as Rice husk, sugarcane gabash and domestic waste such as palm shell as an alternative and affordable energy source.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Charcoal briquette production involves: Raw Material Collection: The process begins with gathering organic waste materials such as sawdust, rice husks, and other agricultural residues. Carbonization: The collected materials are then subjected to a carbonization process, usually in a kiln, where they are burned in the absence of oxygen to convert them into charcoal. This process removes moisture and volatile substances, leaving behind a carbon-rich residue. Grinding: The resulting charcoal is ground into a fine powder to ensure uniformity and ease of briquetting. Mixing with Binder: The powdered charcoal is mixed with a binding agent, such as starch, clay, or molasses, which helps hold the particles together.Water is often added to form a consistent mixture. Briquetting: The mixture is then compressed into briquettes using a briquette press or mold.This step involves applying pressure to shape the mixture into uniform sizes and shapes.The briquettes is then dried and packaged for sale

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

The unending painful claws of deforestation and global warming is evident in our region (North East) and country (Nigeria). Illegal logging activities in and desert encroachment in the North East Nigeria coupled with poverty has eaten deep into our ecosystem. There is an urgent need to save our forest from these activities hence the use of charcoal briquette. This project involve the production of charcoal briquette from municipal, agricultural and domestic waste as an alternative, affordable,environmentally friendly energy source. This offer solutions in terms of preservation of endangered biodiversity,as well as providing economic support to rural and urban communities most especially women and youth, help lower carbon house gas emissions, reduction in deforestation and environmental pollution, employment generation,reduced indoor air pollution resulting in improved health and overall well-being for families, especially women and children who are often more exposed to cooking fumes.

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

Benefit of using Charcoal Briquettes are: Environmental Benefits Reduction of Waste: Briquettes are often made from agricultural waste, sawdust, and other biomass materials, which helps reduce waste and promotes recycling. Lower Emissions: Charcoal briquettes generally produce fewer emissions than traditional wood charcoal, reducing air pollution and improving air quality. Sustainable: Using renewable biomass materials for briquettes can help preserve forests and reduce deforestation. Economic Benefits Cost-Effective: Briquettes are often cheaper than traditional charcoal and other fuels, making them a cost-effective alternative for cooking and heating Longer Burning Time: Charcoal briquettes burn longer and more consistently than traditional wood charcoal, providing a more reliable and efficient heat source. Health Benefits Reduced Smoke Production: Briquettes produce less smoke and fewer harmful particulates, improving indoor air quality and reducing respiratory issues for users

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

My target beneficiaries are women and youth from the age of 15-65 who are 35% administrative worker and 65 % farmers, who cook their meals with wood charcoal in rural area and those who can no longer afford to use fossil fuel .The project also targets women and youth in the religious institutions such as Churches and Mosques, Educational Institutions such as Universities,Polytechnics, Monotechnics, College of Institutions and Secondary Schools for employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, promoting gender equality and empowering these groups to contribute to economic development. Finally, my target beneficiaries are Non-Governmental Organizations working in areas such as women’s empowerment, environmental conservation, rural development.Collaborating with them will help amplify our conservation efforts, impact, reach a broader audience and raise awareness about environmental protection.This will ensure the acceptability of Charcoal Briquette as an energy source that is cheaper.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-22

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

2

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.)

Aminu Moses Rex is ambitious, result oriented, innovative, resourceful, creative and social enthusiast. Born in the year 1987, graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering in the year 2011 with a Masters degree in Waste Management from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello university, Zaria, in the year 2015. He is passionate about creating leadership value and this led his appointment as president of Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship International, the first Youth chapter in the world youth chapter in the world which help him gained experience in leadership. After his first degree he created “Waste2Wealth” initiative, an initiative that convert solid waste to household furniture like chairs, table, and cabinet during the compulsory National Youth Service Corps in Adamawa state. Miss Comfort Zaidu is the quality control officer with five years working experience in charge of the project. she has an Health, Safety and Environment certification(HSE) from the JPTS international Institute.

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/tolulopeadedini?igsh=M2RseTY2dGprdDJx

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

Charcoal briquette production significantly contribute to "No Poverty" Goal through various means: Income Generation:The production and sale of charcoal briquettes provide a source of income for individuals and communities, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas.This economic activity creates jobs in the collection of raw materials, carbonization, briquetting, and sales processes. Affordable Energy Source: Charcoal briquettes are often more affordable and accessible than traditional charcoal or other fuels, making them a viable option for low-income households. By providing a cost-effective energy source, they help reduce energy poverty and the financial burden of fuel costs on impoverished families. Utilization of Waste Materials:The production process uses agricultural and organic waste materials, which are often abundant and inexpensive.This not only provides a low-cost raw material for briquette production but also helps in waste management and environmental Conservation

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

My project contribute to the Zero Hunger goal by: Agricultural Waste Utilization:The process uses agricultural waste materials like rice husks, coconut shells, and sawdust.By providing an economic incentive to collect and process these materials, the production of charcoal briquettes reduce waste and create an additional revenue stream for farmers.This extra income can be reinvested in agricultural activities, leading to increased productivity and food production. Efficient Cooking Fuel:Charcoal briquettes often burn more efficiently and at higher temperatures than traditional wood charcoal, which reduce cooking time. This efficiency lead to more time being available for agriculture, thereby supporting increased food production. Reduction of Deforestation:By providing an alternative to traditional wood charcoal, the use of briquettes help reduce deforestation.Preserving forests helps maintain ecosystems and biodiversity, which are crucial for sustainable agriculture and food production

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

Economic Benefits Leading to Health Improvements:The income generated from charcoal briquette production can improve overall living standards. With additional income, families can afford better healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions, leading to enhanced well-being and health outcomes. Reduction of Deforestation and Associated Health Risks: By using agricultural residues instead of wood for fuel, charcoal briquette production helps reduce deforestation. Deforestation can lead to the spread of vector-borne diseases such as malaria as it disrupts local ecosystems. Preserving forests helps maintain healthier ecosystems and reduces these health risks. Mitigation of Climate Change: Efficient briquettes contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional biomass fuels. Reduced carbon emissions contribute to mitigating climate change, which has direct and indirect impacts on public health. Healthier ecosystems and stable climates support better overall health condition

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Charcoal briquette production contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Quality Education in several impactful ways: Financial Support for Education: Increased Household Income: By providing an additional source of income through the sale of agricultural waste and employment opportunities, families can better afford to send their children to school and cover educational expenses. Community Development Funds: Profits from the briquette business can be allocated to community development funds that support local schools, provide scholarships, and improve educational infrastructure. Infrastructure Improvements: School Energy Solutions: Schools can use briquettes as a clean and affordable energy source for cooking school meals, heating classrooms, and other energy needs, ensuring a better learning environment. Facility Enhancements: Profits from this project can lead to the building or upgrading of educational facilities, providing students with better learning conditions.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Charcoal briquette production contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Gender Equality in several ways: Economic Empowerment: Employment Opportunities: The briquette production process creates job opportunities for women, allowing them to earn a stable income and achieve financial independence. Entrepreneurship: Women can start their own briquette production businesses or engage in related activities such as distribution and sales, fostering entrepreneurship, economic growth and most importantly Financial Independence. Health and Well-being: Reduced Indoor Pollution: Briquettes produce less smoke compared to traditional charcoal, reducing indoor air pollution and improving the health of women and children who are often more exposed to cooking fumes. Educational Opportunities: Access to Education: With increased household income, families can afford to send their daughters to school, promoting gender equality in education and empowering the next generation of women.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Charcoal briquette production contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Clean Water and Sanitation in several ways: Reduction in Deforestation and Erosion: By using agricultural waste instead of wood, briquette production helps reduce deforestation, which in turn prevents soil erosion and maintains healthy watersheds. Healthy forests play a crucial role in maintaining clean water supplies. Reduced Water Contamination: Cleaner Combustion: Briquettes burn more cleanly than traditional wood charcoal, producing less ash and fewer pollutants. This reduces the contamination of water sources from airborne particles and runoff. Waste Management: Properly managed briquette production facilities ensure that waste byproducts are minimized and treated appropriately, reducing the risk of water pollution. Efficient Use of Water in Production: Water Recycling: Implementing water recycling techniques in the briquette production process helps conserve water and reduce wastewater.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

My Project Contributes to the affordable and Clean Energy Goal though: Renewable Energy Source: The raw materials for charcoal briquettes, such as agricultural residues, are renewable resources. Utilizing these materials supports a sustainable and renewable energy cycle, contributing to long-term energy security. Energy Security and Resilience: By diversifying the sources of energy, briquette production enhances energy security. Communities that produce their own briquettes are less dependent on external energy supplies, increasing their resilience to energy price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Clean Burning: Charcoal briquettes produce less smoke and fewer harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter compared to traditional wood charcoal. This cleaner burning process contributes to better indoor and outdoor air quality, aligning with the goal of clean energy. Through these, charcoal briquette production supports the transition to sustainable energy for all

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

My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth goal through various means: Resilience and Diversification:By providing an alternative source of income, briquette production helps diversify the local economy, making it more resilient to economic shocks. This diversification can be particularly important in regions dependent on a single industry or agricultural product. Market Development: The establishment of a briquette industry can stimulate the development of related markets, such as those for raw materials, machinery, and distribution networks. This market development can further boost economic growth and create additional employment opportunities. Sustainable Business Practices:Charcoal briquette production promotes the use of sustainable business practices by utilizing renewable resources and focusing on eco-friendly processes.This aligns with global trends towards sustainable development and can attract investment and support from both public and private sectors.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

My project contributes to the "Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure goal of:: Promotion of Local Industries: Establishing briquette production facilities fosters the development of local industries. This can lead to the creation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that drive economic growth and industrialization at the community level. Innovation in Waste Management: The process involves the innovative use of agricultural and organic waste materials, transforming them into valuable energy resources. This not only reduces waste but also encourages the development of innovative technologies and processes for waste management. Technological Advancement: The production of charcoal briquettes requires specialized machinery and equipment. This promotes technological advancement and the adoption of new technologies in the energy sector. Over time, improvements in briquette production technologies can lead to more efficient and sustainable practices

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

My project contributes to the SDG of Reduced Inequalities through: Economic Inclusion: Job Creation: The briquette production process generates employment opportunities for marginalized groups, including low-income individuals, women, and youth, promoting economic inclusion and reducing income disparities. Entrepreneurial Opportunities: By supporting small business startups and providing training, the project empowers individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to become entrepreneurs, fostering economic mobility. Social Inclusion: Community Involvement: The project involves local communities in the production process, fostering a sense of ownership and participation. This inclusive approach ensures that the benefits of the project are shared across the community. Supporting Vulnerable Groups: By targeting vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities and the elderly for employment and support, the project helps reduce social inequalities and promote inclusive development.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

My project contributes to sustainable cities and communities in several impactful ways: Waste Management and Recycling: Charcoal briquette production utilizes agricultural and organic waste materials that would otherwise contribute to urban waste problems. By recycling these materials, the industry helps reduce waste accumulation in cities, promoting cleaner and healthier urban environments. Reduction of Air Pollution: Briquettes burn more cleanly and efficiently than traditional wood charcoal, producing less smoke and fewer harmful emissions. This reduction in air pollution improves air quality in urban areas, contributing to healthier living conditions for city residents. Sustainable Energy Source: By providing an alternative to traditional wood charcoal, briquettes offer a more sustainable energy source. This helps decrease the reliance on wood from forests, reducing deforestation and its associated impacts on urban ecosystems and green spaces.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

My project contributes to the Responsible Consumption and Production goal through : Waste Utilization and Reduction: Charcoal briquette production effectively utilizes agricultural and organic waste materials, such as sawdust, rice husks, and coconut shells, that would otherwise be discarded. This reduces waste and promotes the recycling of materials, aligning with the principles of a circular economy. Efficient Production Processes: The production of charcoal briquettes involves processes that are designed to maximize efficiency and minimize waste. Innovations and improvements in these processes lead to better resource use, reduced energy consumption, and lower emissions. Sustainable Resource Management: By transforming agricultural residues into energy, briquette production encourages the sustainable management of natural resources. It reduces the need for wood as a fuel source, thereby alleviating pressure on forests and contributing to the conservation of natural resources.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

My project contributes to Climate Action goal through various means such as : Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Charcoal briquettes burn more efficiently and cleanly than traditional wood charcoal, resulting in fewer greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). This reduction in emissions helps mitigate the impacts of climate change. Decreased Deforestation: The production of briquettes from agricultural waste reduces the need for wood as a fuel source, thereby decreasing deforestation. Forests play a crucial role in sequestering carbon, so preserving them helps maintain their capacity to absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere. Carbon Sequestration: By promoting the use of agricultural waste, which would otherwise decompose and release carbon into the atmosphere, briquette production helps in sequestering carbon. The carbon is instead stored in the briquettes and gradually released during combustion, at a much slower rate compared to open decomposition.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Reduced Pollution Runoff: Traditional charcoal production and the burning of wood and other biomass can lead to deforestation and soil erosion, which increase sediment and nutrient runoff into water bodies.By providing an alternative to wood charcoal, briquette production helps reduce deforestation and,consequently, the pollution runoff that affects aquatic ecosystems. Decreased Use of Harmful Chemicals:Some traditional charcoal production methods involve the use of chemicals that can leach into water sources and harm aquatic life.Briquette production, especially when it uses clean and efficient processes, can avoid the use of such harmful chemicals, protecting water quality. Conservation of Mangroves and Coastal Forests:Mangroves and coastal forests are often harvested for wood fuel, leading to habitat destruction and increased coastal erosion.By reducing the demand for wood, briquette production helps conserve these critical coastal ecosystems, which help in protecting marine life

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

My project contributes to the life on land goal through various means such as: Conservation of Biodiversity: Forests and other natural habitats are home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. By reducing the pressure on these ecosystems from logging for wood fuel, briquette production helps preserve biodiversity and protect endangered species. Sustainable Use of Resources: Briquettes are typically made from agricultural residues and other organic waste materials, promoting the sustainable use of resources. This reduces the need to harvest new raw materials, helping to conserve natural habitats. Soil Conservation: Using agricultural waste for briquette production prevents the open burning of these materials, which can degrade soil quality. By recycling organic waste into briquettes, nutrients can be returned to the soil, enhancing soil fertility and preventing erosion.

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

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Charcoal briquette production contributes to the (SDG) of Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions in several ways: Economic Stability and Reduced Conflict: Job Creation: By creating employment opportunities, the project helps reduce poverty and economic disparities, which are often root causes of conflict and social unrest. Economic stability fosters a more peaceful community. Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Empowering individuals, especially youth and marginalized groups, to start their own businesses in briquette production can reduce the likelihood of involvement in criminal activities or insurgency. Community Cohesion: Inclusive Development: Involving diverse community members in the production process promotes social cohesion and a sense of shared purpose, reducing tensions and fostering cooperation. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: The project can incorporate community dialogue and conflict resolution training, helping to build local capacities for managing disputes peacefully.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

My project contributes to the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of Partnerships for the Goals in several impactful ways: Local and Regional Partnerships: Community Collaboration: By working closely with local farmers, suppliers, and community organizations, the project builds a strong network that ensures a sustainable supply of raw materials and community support. Regional Networks: Establishing connections with regional stakeholders, including local governments and NGOs, helps to align efforts and resources towards common sustainability goals. Public-Private Partnerships: Government Engagement: Partnering with local and national government agencies facilitates regulatory support, access to resources, and alignment with public policies and development initiatives. Private Sector Involvement: Collaborations with private companies and investors provide essential financial support, technical expertise, and innovation, enhancing production efficiency and sustainability of the project.

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.

5

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

Transformative Use of Waste Materials: Unlike traditional charcoal production, which relies on cutting down trees, briquette production utilizes agricultural and organic waste materials, such as sawdust, rice husks, and coconut shells. This innovative approach not only reduces waste but also transforms it into a valuable energy resource, promoting a circular economy. Sustainable Alternative to Traditional Fuels: Charcoal briquettes serve as a sustainable alternative to traditional wood charcoal and fossil fuels. Their production reduces deforestation and reliance on non-renewable energy sources, supporting environmental sustainability and contributing to the fight against climate change. Enhanced Combustion Efficiency: Briquettes are designed to burn more efficiently and cleanly than traditional wood charcoal. They produce less smoke and harmful emissions, which improves air quality and health outcomes for users, particularly in indoor settings where traditional charcoal is often use

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

The Main Competitors are: Traditional Charcoal Producers: These are the primary competitors, as they produce the same end product used for cooking and heating. Alternative Biomass Fuel Producers: This includes producers of other biomass-based fuels such as wood pellets, biochar, and dung cakes. LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) and Natural Gas Suppliers: These fuels are often used as alternatives to charcoal for cooking and heating in many regions What makes my Project stand out are; Waste Utilization: Unlike traditional charcoal producers who rely on wood from forests, briquette production utilizes agricultural and organic waste..This help to reuse waste materials that would otherwise contribute to pollution. Lower Emissions: Briquettes burn more cleanly than traditional charcoal, producing fewer pollutants and contributing to better air quality and health outcomes. Affordability: Briquettes are often cheaper to produce and purchase than traditional charcoal, LPG, and other biomass fuels,

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

Yes, I am initiating actions within my community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs for example; I establish mentorship programs where experienced female entrepreneurs provide guidance, advice, and support to aspiring women entrepreneurs. This helps build confidence, skills, and networks. I organize regular networking events, workshops, and seminars where female entrepreneurs can meet, share experiences, and build professional relationships. These events also include guest speakers and panels featuring successful women in business. I provided virtual training programs that focused on business management, financial literacy, marketing, and digital skillsand technology. These programs are tailored to the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs I launched awareness campaigns that highlight the contributions and successes of female entrepreneurs. These campaigns change societal perceptions and encourage more women to consider entrepreneurship.