Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Riciclo is a waste management company that aims at improving the lives of pupils and locals by collecting waste , sensitizing on climate change and improving food security by providing better organic manure

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Most schools, universities , house holds , towns and cities don't have proper waste management systems making this third world country unbearable to live in with children contracting diseases and reducing mortality rate Well, Riciclo aims at giving value to waste 1)By converting it into paper mache and selling to companies 2) Converting organic waste to organic manure and selling to farmers enriching agriculture 3) Planting more trees to improve the environment 4) Collecting waste from schools for free and sensitizing on waste management to improve life of pupils in school and many more

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

Poor waste disposal of organic, plastic, and paper waste in schools and surrounding communities has damaging ramifications on the well-being and health of individuals, environmental sustainability, and local wildlife. This includes the proliferation of pests and diseases, pollution of soil and water resources, and contribution to climate change through the release of harmful greenhouse gases.

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

Using our organic manure would ensure better yields and reduced cases of food poisoning due to chemicals in artificial fertilizers The paper merchandise would ensure less trees are cut as this would substitute for the trees . Through the organic manure produced , we will grow crops and sell them to generate revenue

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

The targeted beneficiaries are schools , universities , colleges and farmers

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-04-09

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.)

Florian Keller - a travel agency CEO and consultant Emelda Nyongesa -An accountant and PhD holder

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

www.riciclo.co.ke https://shorturl.at/v8pWN https://x.com/RicicloGroup?t=oQy1unnIt3sQqjL5ibeXXw&s=09

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

Other: waste management

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Creating employment opportunities for individuals from low-income communities. This not only provides stable income but also helps to alleviate poverty by offering livelihood opportunities. Hiring marginalized or disadvantaged individuals, providing them with training and employment opportunities to lift them out of poverty. Offering discounted services to low-income households and schools and implementing pay-as-you-go models to make waste collection more affordable. Supporting informal waste workers individuals by formalizing their employment, providing training, and offering fair wages and benefits.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Through our organic manure, we enhance biodiversity and improve food security, playing a crucial role in ensuring zero hunger. By enriching the soil and promoting sustainable agriculture, we support a healthier ecosystem and a more resilient food supply for communities.

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

We ensure a clean environment by championing for climate change and sensitizing on waste management

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Forming partnerships with schools, universities, and educational organizations to support their sustainability initiatives and environmental education programs including, developing educational materials and activities that align with academic standards and enhance students' understanding of environmental issues. Developing and implementing educational programs in schools, universities, and communities such as workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities to raise awareness about waste management, recycling, and environmental sustainability. Offering internship programs and training opportunities for students interested in environmental science, waste management, and related fields. Collaborating with academic institutions on research projects and initiatives related to waste management technologies, sustainable practices, and environmental conservation.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Our project has 3 women and 3 mean as directors

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 actively collecting waste and educating local communities on proper waste management practices, we significantly reduce the amount of waste being dumped into our water sources. Our efforts help to protect aquatic ecosystems, ensure cleaner water for all, and promote a healthier environment for future generations.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Recycling and Resource Recovery: By promoting recycling and the recovery of materials, we reduce the need for energy-intensive production processes associated with virgin materials. This leads to lower energy consumption and a decrease in overall environmental impact. Public Awareness and Education: By educating the public and businesses on the importance of waste reduction, recycling, and proper waste management, we help to decrease the overall amount of waste generated. This not only conserves resources but also supports the broader transition to sustainable energy systems.

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

Job Creation: Direct Employment: By hiring workers for various roles such as waste collectors, sorters, drivers, and administrative staff, the company will provide direct employment opportunities. Indirect Employment: Supporting industries such as recycling plants, equipment suppliers, and service providers will also benefit from increased demand, creating additional jobs. Skill Development: The company will offer training programs that equip employees with valuable skills in waste management, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency. Opportunities for career advancement within the company will help employees develop professionally, leading to better job satisfaction and economic stability. Economic Impact: The company’s operations will generate economic activity in local communities by spending on goods and services, thus stimulating the local economy. By paying taxes, the company will contribute to public finances

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Recycling: Our company focusses on recycling initiatives. By extracting valuable materials from waste streams and processing them into reusable products, for example organic waste to manure. This will directly contribute to sustainable resource management and promote circular economy principles. Job creation and economic growth: Our operations require a skilled workforce and infrastructure, leading to job creation and economic growth in the local communities. This contributes to the development of industry and strengthens the overall infrastructure of the areas of operation. Research and development: Riciclo will research and develop new technologies and solutions for waste management challenges. This directly drives for innovation, leading to the development of advanced waste treatment methods, recycling technologies, and sustainable practices.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

By creating jobs, in underserved communities, we will provide stable income and career development opportunities to individuals who might otherwise face barriers to employment. By implementing inclusive hiring practices that prioritize marginalized groups, such as women, minorities, and people with disabilities, to help reduce inequalities within the workforce. Collaborating with local businesses and suppliers, especially those owned by underrepresented groups, to stimulate local economies and promote economic equity. Actively involving community members in decision-making processes related to waste management ensuring that the needs and voices of all community members, particularly those from marginalized groups, are heard and addressed. Working towards reducing environmental hazards in poorer neighborhoods, which are often disproportionately affected by waste-related issues to help mitigate health disparities and improve the overall quality of life.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

By implementing effective waste reduction and recycling programs, the company minimizes the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, reducing environmental pollution and conserving natural resources. By ensuring that waste is disposed of properly preventing illegal dumping and contamination of water bodies, soil, and air. This protects public health and the environment. Educating residents and businesses about waste management practices fostering a culture of sustainability. This will lead to higher participation rates in recycling and waste reduction programs. Partnering with local governments and organizations to develop and maintain green infrastructure, such as composting facilities and recycling centers, supporting sustainable urban development. Proper waste management reduces the incidence of diseases and health issues related to waste pollution, improving the quality of life in urban areas.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

By implementing and promoting efficient waste collection, sorting, and recycling processes help minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills and incineration, thus reducing overall waste generation. By encouraging the recycling and reuse of materials. This will help in conserving natural resources, reducing pollution, and supporting a circular economy. Conducting awareness and educational campaigns about waste reduction, recycling, and responsible consumption habits will directly influence consumer behavior, leading to more sustainable consumption patterns. Working with businesses and industries to adopt sustainable production practices, such as using recycled materials, reducing packaging, and designing products for longer life and easier recycling. Advocating for and complying with policies and regulations that promote sustainable waste management practices and responsible production standards.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Proper waste management, particularly at landfills, can capture methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere. Diverting organic waste from landfills to composting facilities reduces methane emissions. Composting organic materials also enriches soil, which can sequester carbon dioxide. Recycling materials like paper and plastic conserves natural resources and reduces the need for energy-intensive extraction and manufacturing processes, leading to lower carbon emissions. Running programs to educate communities about reducing, reusing, and recycling waste, promoting sustainable behavior mitigating climate change. By increasing recycling rates and promoting composting, we can reduce the volume of waste that ends up in landfills Advocating for policies and regulations that support sustainable waste practices and climate action, such as bans on single-use plastics or incentives for recycling programs .

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Effective management and reducing of waste, particularly plastic waste prevents litter from entering waterways and oceans. This will help in mitigating the harmful effects of pollution on marine life. Encouraging recycling and the reuse of materials helping decrease the overall amount of waste, reducing the potential for marine debris. These efforts will also support the circular economy, minimizing the need for new raw materials and reducing environmental impact. Ensuring that hazardous and non-hazardous waste is disposed of correctly prevents toxic substances from leaching into water bodies. Proper landfill management and treatment of industrial waste play critical roles in this. Educating the community about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling leading to more environmentally conscious behavior. Participating in river clean-ups directly removing waste from these environments. Partnering with environmental NGOs and government agencies

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

By ensuring proper waste collection and disposal preventing the accumulation of waste on land, reducing soil contamination and protecting terrestrial ecosystems. By encouraging recycling and the reuse of materials, helping conserve natural resources and reducing the need for new raw materials, thereby preserving natural habitats and biodiversity. Composting organic waste contributing to soil health by producing nutrient-rich compost, which enhances soil fertility and supports plant growth. Through educational programs and community outreach, we raise awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal and the impact of waste on the environment, encouraging more sustainable behaviors. Collaborating with governments and organizations to develop and implement policies that protect land ecosystems from the adverse effects of waste.

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

Providing equal employment opportunities and fair wages helping reduce inequalities and fostering a sense of justice within the community. Engaging with communities and educating them on proper waste management practices fostering a sense of shared responsibility and cooperation leading to stronger community bonds and a more cohesive society. Implementing transparent business practices and ensuring accountability in operations reducing corruption and promoting trust. Proper waste management reduces pollution and health hazards, contributing to a healthier community. A healthy population is essential for maintaining peace and justice. Effective waste management reduces environmental degradation and resource scarcity, which are often sources of conflict. By mitigating these issues, the company can help prevent conflicts over resources.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

By partnering with governments, NGOs, and other businesses to implement comprehensive waste management solutions including joint recycling programs, waste reduction campaigns, and educational workshops. Sharing expertise and best practices in waste management with local communities and international partners involving training sessions, workshops, and conferences spreading awareness and improving waste management techniques globally. Collaborating with local enterprises and entrepreneurs to create sustainable waste management systems generating economic opportunities, such as recycling centers and waste-to-energy plants. Working with technological partners to develop and transfer innovative waste management technologies improving efficiency and effectiveness in waste processing and recycling, benefiting all partners involved. Engaging with community organizations and residents to build strong, cooperative relationships ensuring that waste management practices are culturally appropriate

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.

7 - Strongly Agree

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.

4

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.

3

05.08 Justification

Our target group is the lower schools , high schools and institutions of higher learning and the local communities around the institutions . This services have not been offered before or if they have , they haven't been properly addressed as many schools still have big landfills which impact the learning of the students directly . Riciclo offers a long term and life changing solution to these institutions and schools by offering proper waste management services to these institutions and the local communities

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

TakaTaka Solutions Garbage Dot Com Ltd Zoa Taka Ltd M-taka What sets us apart from these competitors is our commitment to innovation, community engagement, sustainability and a greener and cleaner future and learning environments for the younger generations Unlike some competitors who may prioritize profit over environmental impact, we place a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and environmental stewardship Ultimately, what truly distinguishes us is our holistic approach to waste management, combining environmental responsibility with community engagement and innovation. We believe that by working together with our customers and partners, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.

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

We empower women to lead and innovate in creating sustainable solutions, this can be seen as we have elected three out of the total number of six directors as women. These efforts not only support gender equality but also enhance local economic growth and environmental stewardship, demonstrating the transformative impact of female leadership in traditionally male-dominated sectors.