Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

GenZ Cycling will engage unemployed urban youth to offer FREE waste management and recycling services in cities, addressing unemployment and social vice via self-sustaining green jobs, enhancing recycling supply chain and mitigating environmental impacts.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

This idea will empower unemployed youths in urban Nigerian cities by engaging them as waste managers, addressing both high unemployment rates and poor waste management practices. Vulnerable youths will undertake waste collection and recycling activities free of charge. Revenue generated from selling recycled materials will provide them with income. This initiative tackles several critical issues and will help; • Keep cities cleaner and reduce the environmental and health impacts of poorly disposed waste, such as blocked drainage systems that lead to flooding and the spread of diseases through vectors. • Support industries that rely on recycled materials, enhancing the waste supply chain and contributing to a more sustainable economy • Promote economic resilience by creating jobs in the waste management sector. Transforming unemployed youths into active contributors to waste management will foster a healthier environment and provide tangible economic opportunities for vulnerable youths

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

Rapid population growth and urbanization in Nigerian cities has led to increased waste generation without corresponding improvement in the mostly informal waste management infrastructure. Neighborhoods lack waste management plans. These gaps have resulted in high levels of environmental pollution including public waste accumulation, air and water pollution and health risks owing to prevalence of disease vectors. Waste workers and residents are exposed to hazardous waste materials that cause skin and respiratory issues. Inefficient waste management also exacerbate climate change issues as poorly disposed waste blocks drainage systems causing flooding. Economically, tourism is on a decline due to unsightly and unsanitary conditions in cities. Additionally, rural-urban migration has led to steadily rising youth (8.6%) and urban (4%) unemployment increasing poverty, social unrest, crime, insecurity, economic stagnation and strain on public services as well as youth mental health issues.

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

Social benefits - Unemployment rate and crime among urban youths will be drastically cut down through green job creation - Opportunities would be available for all genders - Increased quality of life for urban residents due to cleaner environment Environmental/climate change benefits: - Urban neighborhoods will be cleaner and the environmental and health impacts of poorly disposed waste, will be reduced. - This initiative will minimize greenhouse gas emissions as proper management of organic waste reduce generation of greenhouse gases such as methane that contributes to global warming. Economic benefits - Recycling industries reliant on recycled materials would benefit from a more formalized waste management system that fosters a sustainable waste management. - Both direct and indirect jobs creation will stimulate local economic activities - Better managed waste will positively influence tourism bringing much needed foreign exchange.

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

The targeted beneficiaries of this intervention is primarily vulnerable unemployed youths (18-35 years). This includes out of school adolescents unable to further education and not qualified to get formal employment. The project will also partner with Government and relevant social departments to target survivors of trafficking and forced prostitution who are stranded in urban areas with no means of income. Additionally, the project will target communities in urban areas that are underserviced and have poor access to waste management services. Lastly, the project will seek to support recycling industries with an organized and formalized waste management structure that ensures reliable supply of categorized non-biodegradable recyclable waste especially plastics.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-06-01

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.)

Rachel Balami: Project Support Senior Associate at eHealth Africa, over 4 years implementing projects for international organizations in northeast Nigeria. Currently utilizes technology to monitor multiple project portfolios improving vulnerable populations' wellbeing. Holds a degree in agriculture, project management certifications, and excels in technology-based project management. Passionate about sustainable environments. Dogara Bardeson: Climate enthusiast with 7+ years focused on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate change. Holds an agriculture degree and pursues an M.B.A. Manages international organization-funded projects, skilled in monitoring and evaluation, social research, community engagement, and partnership building. Expertise includes agriculture, data management, environmental sciences, program and energy management, climate policy development, and sustainable waste management.

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?

j) Public services

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

GenZ Cycle will significantly contribute to achieving SDG 1 "No Poverty." By creating jobs for unemployed youths in a developing nations like Nigeria, we reduce unemployment, provide stable incomes, improve living standards, and enables access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare. These jobs in waste management stimulate local economies, increase productivity and consumer spending, and generate tax revenues for social welfare and infrastructure development. Employment fosters social inclusion, reduces inequality, and empowers marginalized youths through skill development and upward mobility. Jobs in sustainable sectors like renewable energy and agriculture further promote economic prosperity and environmental sustainability, aligning with broader SDG objectives.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

GenZ Cycling through creation of jobs for unemployed urban youths in contributes to SDG Goal Zero Hunger by providing stable incomes to youths, which provides economic access to food, in quality and quantity that alleviates hunger. Secondly, by managing waste effectively, GenZ Cycling will reduce environmental pollution that can harm agricultural productivity and food security such as reduced soil fertility owing to non-biodegradable waste that inhibit percolation and water absorption on farmlands. Finally, it supports economic growth, which can lead to improved access to food and nutrition for communities, thereby addressing the root causes of hunger and supporting sustainable development.

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

GenZ Cycling will significantly contribute to SDG Goal "Good health and well-being" by creating clean environments free from the harmful impacts of poor waste management practices. By effectively managing waste, it will reduce air, water, and soil pollution, thereby lowering the risk of respiratory diseases, waterborne illnesses, and other health hazards. This promotes public health by minimizing exposure to harmful toxins and pathogens. Additionally, proper waste disposal prevents the proliferation of pests and disease vectors, further safeguarding community health. Moreover, GenZ Cycling's emphasis on waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable practices helps conserve natural resources and mitigate climate change, contributing to long-term environmental and public health benefits. Overall, these initiatives will foster healthier communities and support sustainable development objectives.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

By improving income and livelihood opportunities of youths, out of school youths have the opportunity to re-enroll themselves in school. GenZ Cycling will provide mentoring opportunities to help engaged youths seek other routes. As regards waste management and recycling, there will be continuous training and retraining to enable engaged youths become experts and confident to set up individual waste management businesses.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

GenZ Cycling will deliberately work with relevant agencies and gender advocacy groups to targets vulnerable gender groups especially survivors of abuse. A waste management social enterprise employing both male and female unemployed youths significantly advances Gender Equality (SDG 5). It will provide economic empowerment by offering equal employment and financial independence to women, helping close the gender pay gap. By training both genders in waste management skills, it enhances their career prospects and challenges traditional gender roles. Promoting women in leadership roles and ensuring workplace equality through policies like equal pay and anti-discrimination fosters an inclusive environment. Women in the enterprise become community role models, inspiring others and advocating for gender equity. Overall, the enterprise drives societal change towards gender equality. Additionally, the organization will abide by strict non-discriminatory laws to protect staff and customers alike

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

By effectively managing waste, especially hazardous and non-biodegradable materials, GenZ Cycle will help prevent contamination of water sources such as rivers, lakes, and groundwater. This reduces the risk of waterborne diseases and ensures cleaner water for communities. The enterprise will be involved in managing and recycling sewage sludge or organic waste, which can be converted into compost for agriculture. This promotes safe sanitation practices and reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers that can pollute water sources. Through recycling and reusing materials such as plastics, metals, and paper, the enterprise contributes to reducing water-intensive manufacturing processes. This indirectly conserves water resources and supports sustainable industrial practices. By improving waste collection and disposal services, we help maintain clean and hygienic environments in urban and rural areas. This contributes to overall public health by reducing the spread of water-related disease

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

4

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

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

GenZ Cycling employs both male and female unemployed youths thus significantly contributing to SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. By providing job opportunities, the enterprise addresses SDG 8.1, aiming for full and productive employment, particularly among young people. It promotes gender equality (SDG 5) by offering equal employment opportunities. Through skills development and training in waste management and recycling, we support SDG 8.2 by enhancing economic productivity and innovation. By integrating marginalized youths into the workforce, the enterprise fosters inclusive economic growth (SDG 8.5) and contributes to poverty reduction (SDG 1) by improving livelihoods. Moreover, we will engage with the community to promote environmental sustainability and social responsibility, aligning with SDG 8.10's goals of strengthening financial access and services for all. Overall, such we will not only create jobs but also empower youths, advance gender equality

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

4

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

• Employment and Economic Opportunities: By providing jobs, particularly to marginalized groups such as youths or low-income communities, GenZ Cycling will reduce unemployment and income inequality. These jobs offer stable incomes, skill development, and opportunities for career advancement, thereby promoting economic empowerment. • Education and Awareness: By promoting education and awareness about waste management practices, environmental sustainability, and health impacts, GenZ Cycling will empower communities with knowledge and skills. This knowledge equips individuals to advocate for their rights, participate in local governance, and make informed decisions, thereby reducing informational inequalities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

GenZ Cycling which will employ both male and female unemployed youths significantly contributes to Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11). By providing inclusive employment, it fosters economic stability and gender equality, empowering women and enhancing social cohesion. Effective waste management reduces pollution, improves public health, and promotes environmental sustainability through recycling and resource efficiency. Community engagement raises awareness about sustainable practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. The enterprise drives infrastructure development for waste management, supports the circular economy, and contributes to climate action by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Overall, it integrates economic, social, and environmental solutions to create resilient and sustainable urban communities.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Responsible consumption and production is fostered by promoting recycling and reuse, reducing landfill waste, and conserving natural resources. It educates and empowers youths with valuable skills, fostering sustainable practices and gender equality. Efficient waste sorting reduces waste generation, aligning with minimizing waste at the source. Through partnerships with recycling companies, it encourages a circular economy and sustainable business practices. Community outreach raises awareness about responsible consumption, leading to behavioral changes. By demonstrating the profitability of sustainable practices, it incentivizes others to adopt responsible consumption habits. Additionally, efficient waste management reduces environmental impact and supports broader climate change mitigation efforts.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

GenZ Cycling, will contribute to climate action and SDG Goal 13 in Nigeria through: 1. Greenhouse Gas Reduction: Through the promotion of recycling, there is reduction of landfill methane emissions and lower greenhouse gases from virgin material production. 2. Energy Efficiency: Recycling uses less energy than raw material production; waste-to-energy creates renewable biogas or biofuels, reducing fossil fuel dependency. 3. Carbon Sequestration: Practices like composting store carbon in soils, offsetting CO2 emissions. Deforestation Prevention: Recycling reduces demand for virgin materials, preserving carbon sinks in forests. 4. Community Education: Educating communities on recycling benefits promotes climate resilience. 5. Circular Economy: Reducing waste generation and promoting resource efficiency minimize environmental impacts. 6. Partnerships and Advocacy: GenZ Cycling will collaborating for policy reforms which supports climate resilience and mitigation in waste management.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

By reducing the deposition of harmful non-bio degradable waste in water bodies, GenZ Cycling plays a crucial role in achieving SDG 14: Life below Water, safeguarding marine ecosystems, and ensuring the well-being of coastal communities and biodiversity. The enterprise will educate local communities and stakeholders about the importance of marine conservation and sustainable waste management practices. This fosters a culture of environmental stewardship and encourages behavior change to reduce waste generation and marine pollution. The project promotes waste management practices that prioritize recycling and waste reduction contribute to mitigating climate change impacts on marine environments. Reduced emissions from landfill sites and incineration, as well as energy savings from recycling processes, help mitigate global warming effects on marine ecosystems.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

GenZ Cycle will contributes to SDG 15: Life on Land by promoting sustainable practices that reduce landfill waste and combat desertification. Through waste reduction, recycling, and composting, it minimizes environmental impacts on terrestrial ecosystems, preserving biodiversity and habitat integrity. By educating communities and engaging them in conservation efforts, the enterprise fosters environmental stewardship and empowers local participation in sustainable land management. These initiatives also mitigate climate change effects, promote resource efficiency, and restore ecosystem services crucial for ecosystem health and resilience.

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

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

As a social enterprise, GenZ Cycling will actively engage in collaborative partnerships, advocating for policy reforms, and fostering inclusive and sustainable practices, a waste management social enterprise can contribute significantly to revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development under SDG Goal 17. These efforts can drive collective action towards addressing global challenges such as waste management, environmental degradation, and poverty alleviation. Additionally, GenZ Cycling will forge partnerships with civil society organizations (CSOs) and the private sector to leverage their expertise, resources, and networks in advancing sustainable waste management practices. Collaborative efforts can include joint projects, knowledge sharing, and capacity building initiatives.

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.

4

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.08 Justification

This service will be disrupting the cycle of paid waste management which is a major disruption. Additionally, the youth driven workforce, backed by training and modern tools will be a paradigm shift from the norm of engaging older workers to manage waste. Furthermore, this idea involve a growth/graduation plan for youth workers who want to continue their education or take up different paths in life. Coaching and mentoring will distinguish youth workers from regular waste service providers. The use of technology (AI) as referenced the below section will enable more efficient targeting of areas with high waste management needs in the cities.

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

The major competitors in Abuja which is where the project will be domiciled are Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), ZL Global Alliance, Vantage Waste, Globe Environmental Services, Waste Matters Nigeria Limited. What makes me stand out from them include the following: - Unique blend of social good and profitability which most do not have e.g the Government agency - The leveraging of technology to drive and organize the waste management process - The business model design to collect waste "for free" which will draw customers to the business. - The opportunity to position for external support/grants to support the youth-driven structure - The plan to establish a profitable and self-sustaining business model through partnership with waste off-takers - The dynamic management team, comprised of young professionals with experience and skills to drive innovation

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

Yes. This model will be promoted to local women who are interested in becoming waste entrepreneurs by carrying out information sessions targeted at women in the local community. These women will also be linked to female waste recycling ambassadors