Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

This project is an energy-creating one which aims at using organic waste matter to create liquefied biogas (LBG) for cooking purposes and its digestate (the remaining solid material) as fertilizer for agricultural (soil enrichment) purposes.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Organic waste matter gotten majorly from households would be collected and sorted into organic and inorganic components. The organic components would then be put in a digester (a sealed vessel where anaerobic digestion takes place), maintained at optimal conditions to foster anaerobic digestion which is a biochemical process whereby microorganisms such as bacteria and archaea break down organic matter to produce biogas and digestate. This process involves four stages: hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis and methanogenesis. After going through all the 4 stages of anaerobic digestion, biogas (primarily methane and Carbondioxide) is formed with digestate as the biogas residuals. The biogas is thereafter collected and stored in a tank and impurities are removed through the process of filtering and scrubbing so as for the biogas to meet quality standards for use as cooking energy. It is then liquefied. The digestate is in turn removed from the digester and processed for agricultural use.

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

I am trying to solve the problem of environmental pollution caused by the wastage of value. By saying "wastage of value", I mean the act of disposing off waste matter that would have been put into good use through the process of recycling to bring about the production of a substance valuable for man's use (which in this case is liquefied biogas). Just like using one stone to kill two birds, the recycling of this organic waste matter will bring about proper waste management as the organic matter would not be subjected to improper handling and disposal which would result to pollution of the air (through the release of greenhouse gases which causes climate change and VOCs, as well as odours which affect air quality and human health), pollution of land (through the contamination of soil and ground water caused by leachate and runoff with alters soil chemistry and fertility) and pollution of water (through the decomposition process which consumes oxygen, leading to water oxygen depletion.

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

By using biogas for cooking purpose, you will enjoy the following benefits: 1. Biogas can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional fuels, reducing your energy expenses. 2. With biogas, you will have a consistent and reliable source of energy for cooking, no more worrying about running out of fuel. 3. Biogas reduces indoor air pollution, creating a healthier cooking environment for you and your family. 4. Biogas is a convenient cooking solution, allowing you to cook when you need to, without relying on external energy sources. 5. By choosing biogas, you are supporting sustainable waste management and reducing your carbon footprint. 6. Biogas produces minimal soot, smoke, and emissions, making cooking a cleaner and more pleasant experience.

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

My project is aimed at serving everyone who generates organic wastes in his/her household and at the same time, everyone who uses whichever form of energy for cooking purposes. Therefore, I can confidently say that this project is aimed at serving the entire populace of my city, of which with steady progression in my business growth, would extend to the entire state, nation, continent and globe. This is because the aim is to get everyone involved in supporting sustainable waste management and reducing our carbon footprint.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-03

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

0

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.)

Not applicable

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

5

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

I somewhat agree that my project contributes to the No poverty goal because when households make use of Liquefied Biogas for cooking, they will spend less money on energy compared to traditional fuels like firewood, charcoal, or fossil fuels. This reduction in energy expenditure frees up resources for other essential needs, such as food, education, and healthcare, which are critical for poverty reduction. Also, in some cases, households or communities can produce Liquefied Biogas themselves, either from biogas digesters or community-based projects (just as in the case of my anticipated soon execution of this project). This production can generate income through the sale of excess Liquefied Biogas to other households, institutions, or industries. This additional income stream can contribute to poverty reduction and economic empowerment.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

I agree that my project contributes to the Zero hunger goal because by providing energy for cooking, Liquefied Biogas helps ensure that food is properly prepared, preserved and consumed, reducing food waste and improving nutrition. Liquefied Biogas also provides a reliable, clean and efficient energy source for cooking, reducing the burden of fuel collection and preparation, especially for women and children. This enables people to focus on food production, processing and consumption.

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

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal because by virtue of the fact that LBG is a clean-burning fuel which produces minimal emissions and pollutants (unlike traditional fuels like firewood, charcoal, or kerosene) the risk of respiratory diseases, lung cancer, and other health problems associated with indoor air pollution is reduced when it becomes the energy adopted by all and sundry for cooking purposes. Also, LBG cooking reduces the need for fuel collection and storage which can lead to improved sanitation and hygiene conditions in households and communities. LBG also enables proper food cooking and processing, thereby reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and improving overall food safety. Also, by providing a reliable energy source for water treatment and purification, LBG can contribute to access to clean water and reduced waterborne diseases. All of these make me strongly agree with the fact that my project contributes to this SDG.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

I agree that my project contributes to the quality education goal because with access to LBG, students (especially girls) can spend less time helping their families collect firewood or other fuels, allowing them more time for studies and education. I am not implying that LBG production does not require any effort at all, but in comparison with the collection of traditional fuels, it does not require unskilled effort (by this, I mean mere manual labour), hence not requiring the efforts of children. LBG also reduces indoor air pollution, leading to better health and reduced absenteeism, enabling students to attend school more regularly. Also, LBG reaches remote or underserved areas, providing energy access and enabling children from these communities to attend school. While the connection between LBG and this SDG is indirect, it nevertheless highlights the interlinkages between energy access, health, and education, all of which are crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

I somewhat agree that my project contributes to the Gender equality goal because by reducing the need for women and girls to travel long distances to collect firewood, their vulnerability to physical and sexual abuse is reduced. The use of Liquefied Biogas can also save women and girls' time and effort spent on firewood collection and cooking, thereby allowing them to pursue education, economic opportunities, and personal development. LBG also reduces indoor air pollution, which disproportionately affects women and girls, who spend more time in the kitchen. This leads to better health and well-being. Also, access to Liquefied Biogas can enable women to start small businesses, such as cooking services or food processing, promoting economic independence and gender equality. By being the alternative to traditional cooking methods, Liquefied Biogas can also help challenge gender roles and expectations, promoting more equitable domestic roles and responsibilities.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal because Liquefied Biogas, being used for cooking, reduces the need for biomass and associated wastes, thereby improving sanitation and hygiene. Also, the production of Liquefied Biogas can help treat organic wastes, reducing the amount of pollutants entering water bodies,

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal because Liquefied Biogas is a renewable energy source that can replace fossil fuels, thus providing clean energy for cooking and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Liquefied Biogas can be produced locally, thereby increasing energy access and reducing reliance on imported fuels, promoting energy security and affordability. Biogas is a renewable energy source that can be produced from organic waste, reducing dependence on finite resources and promoting sustainable energy development. Liquefied Biogas can also be used for efficient cooking, reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainable energy use practices. Also, Liquefied Biogas can replace traditional fuels like wood, charcoal, and fossil fuels, reducing the environmental impacts associated with their use.

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

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth goal because Liquefied Biogas production contributes to job creation, entrepreneurship and productivity. The Liquefied Biogas value chain can create jobs in production, distribution, and sales, thereby contributing to employment opportunities and economic growth. Liquefied Biogas production can enable entrepreneurs, particularly women, to start small businesses, such as cooking services or food processing, promoting economic empowerment. By reducing time spent on cooking and fuel collection, the use of Liquefied Biogas can increase productivity and enable individuals to pursue other economic activities. Also, Liquefied Biogas can be produced and consumed locally, keeping energy spending within the community and stimulating local economic growth. LBG use can also reduce the physical labor associated with traditional cooking methods, thereby improving working conditions and reducing occupational hazards.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

I agree that my project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure because the production of Liquefied biogas contributes to innovation in energy technology in the sense that the use of Liquefied Biogas for cooking can drive innovation in energy technology, such as more efficient biogas production and storage systems.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal because Liquefied Biogas can contribute to energy access, gender equality, social inclusion and economic empowerment. This is evident due to the fact that Liquefied Biogas can provide energy access to remote, rural, or disadvantaged communities, reducing energy poverty and inequality. By reducing the time spent on cooking and fuel collection, Liquefied Biogas can also empower women and girls, promoting gender equality and reducing gender-based disparities. Liquefied Biogas can be produced from waste biomass, hence it can provide a renewable energy source that is accessible to all, regardless of social or economic status. Liquefied Biogas can reduce indoor air pollution, thereby improving health outcomes and reducing health disparities between urban and rural populations. LBG can also create economic opportunities, such as jobs and entrepreneurship, reducing economic inequality and promoting social mobility.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal because Liquefied Biogas production contributes to urban energy access, waste management, sustainable urban planning, community development, and resilient infrastructure, This is evident due to the fact that Liquefied Biogas can provide clean energy for cooking in urban areas, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Biogas production can help manage urban waste, reducing the amount of organic waste sent to landfills and minimizing waste-related environmental impacts. Liquefied Biogas can be integrated into urban planning, promoting sustainable energy systems and reducing the urban carbon footprint. Liquefied Biogas can be produced locally, promoting community development and enhancing the overall quality of life in urban areas.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

I agree that my project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal because Liquefied Biogas can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change by decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. Liquefied Biogas can also be produced from waste biomass, reducing waste and promoting the efficient use of natural resources. Also, the production of Liquefied Biogas can help reduce waste generation by utilizing organic waste that would have otherwise decomposed eventually and released methane that would cause pollution eventually.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Climate change goal because Liquefied Biogas can replace fossil fuels, reducing carbondioxide emissions and mitigating climate change. Liquefied Biogas production can also capture methane from organic waste, reducing its release into the atmosphere. Liquefied Biogas is a renewable energy source, its use would definitely reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. Liquefied Biogas can improve cooking efficiency, thus reducing energy consumption and associated emissions. Also, Liquefied Biogas can enhance energy access and security, thereby supporting communities' ability to adapt to climate change.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

I somewhat agree that my project contributes to the Life below water goal because the production of Liquefied Biogas contributes to marine pollution reduction, ocean acidification mitigation and coastal resilience enhancement. This is evident due to the fact that Liquefied Biogas production can help manage organic waste, thereby reducing the amount of waste that enters oceans and waterways. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Liquefied Biogas can help mitigate ocean acidification caused by carbon dioxide absorption. Also, the production of Liquefied Biogas can support coastal communities' energy needs, thus enhancing their resilience to climate change and ocean-related challenges.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the Life on land goal because the use of Liquefied Biogas contributes to sustainable land use, reducing deforestation, soil conservation and biodiversity conservation. This is evident due to the fact that Liquefied Biogas production can promote sustainable land use practices, such as using organic waste from agriculture and forestry. By providing a renewable energy source, Liquefied Biogas production can reduce the need for fuelwood and charcoal, this would help to prevent deforestation. Liquefied Biogas production can also help reduce soil erosion and degradation by promoting sustainable agriculture practices and reducing the need for intensive farming. Also, Liquefied Biogas production can support biodiversity conservation by promoting sustainable land use and reducing habitat destruction.

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

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

I agree that my project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal because the production of Liquefied Biogas contributes to access to energy, violence reduction, justice promotion, institutional stability and community development. This is based on the fact that Liquefied Biogas can provide reliable and affordable energy for cooking which reduces energy poverty and inequality. By reducing the need for firewood and charcoal, Liquefied Biogas can help decrease conflicts over resources and land. Liquefied Biogas can as well support equitable access to energy, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The infrastructure built for the development of Liquefied Biogas can foster collaboration between governments, private sectors, and communities, promoting institutional stability. Also, Liquefied Biogas production can empower local communities, promoting social cohesion and peaceful development.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

I strongly agree that my project contributes to the partnership for the goal becausethe use of LBG contributes to capacity building, technology transfer, global cooperation, financial cooperation, multi-stakeholder partnerships and data sharing and monitoring. This is becaus LBG can support capacity building in energy access, sustainable development, and environmental protection. LBG technology can be transferred to developing countries, promoting sustainable development and energy access. LBG technology can also be shared and adapted globally, thereby promoting international cooperation and knowledge transfer. LBG projects can attract international funding and investment, promoting financial cooperation and resource mobilization. LGB projects can also attract international funding and investment, promoting financial cooperation and resource mobilization. Also, the use of LBG use can be monitored and data shared globally, promoting transparency and accountability in achieving the SDGs.

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

6

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.

4

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

5

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

3

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

3

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

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

The product already in wide usage is the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) which is similar only in the sense that both forms of energy are gaseous in nature and are both also liquefied for storage sake. However, Liquefied Biogas represents an entirely new type of product/service This is so because the source of biogas (organic wastes) is entirely different from the source of petroleum had (crude oil) in every perspective imaginable, hence this makes all the difference and makes the easy availability of LBG far greater than that of LPG should I start up the production process. Liquefied Biogas is indeed an improvement on an existing product or service which is the Liquefied Petroleum Gas. This is so because using organic wastes to produce energy gives value to something which normally would have been trashed away.

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

My main potential competitors are those companies that also produce gas energy for cooking purposes, especially those companies that produce Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). However, I will stand out from them and will definitely secure a large space and firm ground in the market because the cost of production of biogas is substantially cheaper than the cost of production of LPG. This is because the principal material used for this production is readily available everywhere (i.e organic wastes) and would not be bought with money as the service of helping households to clear their organic wastes would be a perfect substitution for paying for acquiring the organic wastes. This in turn would make the price of biogas substantially cheaper for purchase by the populace for cooking purposes. Since humans tend to harness options that would efficiency cater for their needs while being cheaper than other options of the same kind, it is safe to infer that my production of biogas would stand out.

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

Yes I am. This is evident in the never-ending use of my privileges to challenge gender biases and stereotypes, thus creating a more inclusive environment for female entrepreneurs to thrive.