Kenya - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Viridis : Latin for Green and lively. The viridis project to make briquettes from bagasse aims to address waste management, energy needs, forest conservation, and carbon reduction by converting sugarcane waste into efficient, eco-friendly briquettes.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Background: Bagasse is a fibrous residue obtained from sugarcane after juice extraction. It is a by-product of sugar mills and has the potential to be used as a renewable energy source. The process of converting bagasse into solid briquettes involves several steps: Bagasse is first collected from sugar mills. It undergoes drying to reduce moisture content. Size reduction (e.g., shredding) is performed to achieve the desired particle size. Blending and Binder Addition: Different blending ratios of bagasse are mixed with binders. Common binders include cow dung, clay, and molasses. The choice of binder affects the briquette’s properties. Densification: The blended bagasse is densified using a manual press during the briquetting process. Pressure is applied to form solid briquettes. Advantages and Applications: Bagasse briquettes can replace fossil fuels and firewood. Economic advantage due to bagasse availability. Sustainable solution for energy production.

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

Waste Management: Bagasse, the fibrous residue left after extracting juice from sugarcane, is often discarded as waste. By converting bagasse into briquettes, this project helps manage waste and prevents its accumulation around sugar factories, which can harm the environment. Energy Production: Bagasse briquettes serve as an alternative source of energy. The carbonization process turns bagasse into high-caloric-value briquettes, which can be used for heating, cooking, or other energy needs. This reduces reliance on traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal . The project helps conserve forests annually from deforestation. Carbon Sequestration: The project also contributes to carbon sequestration. It has the potential to sequester 17.90 to 22.03 tons of carbon annually, further benefiting the environment

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

Environmental Impact: By utilizing bagasse (sugarcane waste) for briquette production, the project reduces waste accumulation and promotes sustainable resource use. Energy Efficiency: Bagasse briquettes serve as an eco-friendly alternative to firewood and charcoal. They provide efficient energy for cooking and heating. Forest Conservation: By reducing reliance on firewood, the project helps protect forests from deforestation. Carbon Sequestration: Bagasse briquettes contribute to carbon sequestration, benefiting the environment. In general, the project aligns with environmental sustainability and energy needs.

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

Households: Bagasse briquettes can serve as an affordable and sustainable energy source for cooking and heating in households. Small Businesses: Local businesses, such as restaurants, food vendors and schools can benefit from using bagasse briquettes for cooking. Environmental Advocates: Individuals and organizations focused on environmental conservation and waste reduction.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-05-01

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

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

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

Sharon Achieng. A Kenyan citizen with a Degree of Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Egerton University. She is passionate about conservation and with her expertise and skills she is an asset to the team.

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/shaft_prince?igsh=MTk5eXM4eTZuemNr

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

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

Income Generation and Livelihoods: By producing solid briquettes from bagasse, we create an opportunity for income generation. Local communities can engage in briquette production, leading to employment and economic empowerment. When people have a sustainable source of income, it helps lift them out of poverty. Affordable Energy Access: Bagasse briquettes serve as an alternative energy source. They can be used for cooking, heating, and other purposes. In regions where access to affordable energy is limited, bagasse briquettes provide a cost-effective solution. Families can reduce their expenses on traditional fuels, thus improving their financial situation.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Alternative Fuel Source: Bagasse, a by-product of sugar mills, can be converted into briquettes. These viridis briquettes serve as an alternative energy source. By promoting bagasse briquettes, we reduce the demand for traditional fuels like firewood. This indirectly contributes to food security because it helps preserve forests and ecosystems, which are essential for maintaining soil fertility and biodiversity. Economic Benefits: Utilizing bagasse as a fuel source has economic advantages. It provides an inexpensive alternative to domestic cooking fuel, especially in low-income areas in Kenya. When households can access affordable energy, they can allocate more resources to food and nutrition. Local Employment Opportunities: Briquette production can create local jobs. When people have stable incomes, they can afford nutritious food. Economic empowerment contributes to food security.

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Clean Energy Source: Viridis Bagasse briquettes serve as a cleaner alternative to traditional fuels like firewood and fossil fuels. Reducing reliance on polluting fuels contributes to better air quality, which directly impacts human health. Indirect Health Benefits: By promoting bagasse briquettes, we indirectly contribute to environmental sustainability. A healthier environment leads to improved well-being for communities, as it reduces exposure to harmful pollutants. Reducing Deforestation: Bagasse briquettes help reduce deforestation. Preserving forests supports biodiversity and ecosystem health. Healthy ecosystems are essential for human well-being.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Viridis project contributes to education by creating awareness and educational programs related to sustainable energy sources. Educating communities about bagasse briquettes as an alternative fuel can empower them to make informed choices. The project advocates for safe and inclusive learning environments, emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy practices. Education plays a pivotal role in achieving sustainable development. By integrating bagasse briquettes into educational initiatives, we contribute to a more informed and environmentally conscious society.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Economic Empowerment: By promoting the production and use of bagasse briquettes, viridis will create economic opportunities. This includes employment in briquette production, distribution, and marketing. Ensuring equal access to these opportunities for both men and women contributes to gender equality. Awareness and Education: Empower women with knowledge about sustainable energy alternatives, as they often play a central role in household energy decisions. Decision-Making: Gender equality involves equal participation in decision-making processes.We will involve women in project planning, implementation, and management. Their perspectives and expertise can enhance project outcome.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Water Efficiency and Pollution Reduction: Viridis briquettes serve as an alternative energy source, reducing the need for fossil fuels and firewood. By promoting the use of bagasse briquettes, the project indirectly contributes to water conservation. Reduced reliance on traditional fuels minimizes water pollution associated with their extraction and combustion. In areas where open fires or inefficient stoves are common, using briquettes improves indoor air quality and reduces health risks. Cleaner indoor environments contribute indirectly to better sanitation and hygiene. Integrated Water Resources Management : It emphasizes a holistic approach to water management, considering social, economic, and environmental aspects.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Clean Energy Source: Viridis briquettes serve as an alternative energy source. They can be used for cooking, heating, and other purposes. By promoting bagasse briquettes, we contribute to clean energy solutions that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize environmental impact. Reducing Dependence on Traditional Fuels: Bagasse briquettes provide an eco-friendly alternative to firewood, charcoal, or other polluting fuels. By encouraging their adoption, we help reduce indoor air pollution and associated health risks. Mitigating Climate Change: Viridis briquettes emit fewer greenhouse gases compared to fossil fuels. Supporting this sustainable energy option contributes to climate change mitigation. Waste-to-Energy Approach: By transforming waste materials (bagasse) into valuable energy sources (briquettes), the project aligns with circular economy principles. This approach minimizes waste and promotes resource efficiency.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Sustainable Economic Growth: Viridis briquettes provide an alternative energy source. As demand grows, it stimulates economic activity, benefiting local communities and industries. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises: Encouraging the formalization and growth of MSMEs through bagass briquette production contributes to economic diversification and innovation. Decent Work: Full Employment: The project aims to create employment opportunities. By converting bagasse into briquettes, jobs are generated in various stages such as collection, preparation, blending, densification, and distribution. Equal Pay: The project will promote equal pay for work of equal value, ensuring fairness across genders and abilities.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

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02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Industry and Infrastructure Advancement: Developing efficient briquetting methods and machinery contributes to industrial advancement and infrastructure improvement. Local Economic Benefits: The viridis project can create employment opportunities in the briquette production industry. Supporting local businesses and industries aligns with SDG 9. Research and Development: Innovations in briquette production require research, development, and collaboration. The project fosters knowledge exchange and technological advancements. Innovation in Renewable Energy: Bagasse briquettes serve as a renewable energy source. By creating an innovative solution for utilizing bagasse waste, the project promotes sustainable energy practices.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Equitable Resource Distribution: Viridis briquettes can replace fossil fuels, ensuring fair access to energy resources for all. Equitable distribution of energy contributes to reducing disparities between different socio-economic groups. Investing in Education and Skills Development: The project viridis involves skill development for workers involved in bagasse collection, preparation, and briquette production. Training programs enhance employability and empower marginalized individuals, narrowing the skills gap. Fostering International Cooperation for Fair Trade and Financial Systems: The project aligns with fair trade principles by utilizing bagasse, a renewable resource. International cooperation ensures that sustainable practices benefit all countries, reducing global inequalities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Viridis briquettes serve as an alternative energy source for cooking and heating. By utilizing bagasse waste for briquette production, the project reduces dependence on fossil fuels within urban areas. Sustainable cities aim to minimize reliance on non-renewable energy sources, making bagasse briquettes a valuable contribution. Indoor Air Quality Improvement: In densely populated cities, indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels (such as firewood or charcoal) can be detrimental to health. Viridis briquettes burn cleaner, emitting fewer pollutants. By promoting their use, the project contributes to healthier indoor environments. Waste-to-Energy Conversion: Converting excess bagasse waste into briquettes through a process that increases their density offers a sustainable solution. The economic benefits of viridis lie in their ability to provide an inexpensive alternative to domestic cooking fuel, especially in low-income 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

The project optimizes the use of bagasse, a byproduct of sugarcane processing, by turning it into valuable solid briquettes. By utilizing bagasse for briquette production, the project reduces waste and minimizes environmental impact. This aligns with SDG 12, which aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. The project’s actions demonstrate responsible resource utilization, as it: Reduces Waste: Instead of discarding bagasse, the project transforms it into a useful energy source. Minimizes Deforestation: By substituting briquettes for firewood, the project helps conserve forests. Promotes Economic Advantage: Utilizing bagasse as a fuel source has economic benefits due to its availability.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Reducing Carbon Emissions: Bagasse briquettes serve as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels like coal and oil. When burned, bagasse releases carbon dioxide (CO₂), but this is part of the natural carbon cycle. By using bagasse briquettes, we reduce the net addition of CO₂ to the atmosphere compared to burning fossil fuels. Mitigating Methane Emissions: Bagasse is a by-product of sugarcane processing. If left unused, it decomposes and emits methane (CH₄), a potent greenhouse gas. By converting bagasse into briquettes, we prevent methane emissions and contribute to climate mitigation Supporting Sustainable Energy Transition: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources is crucial for combating climate change. Bagasse briquettes offer a sustainable energy option, especially in regions with abundant sugarcane production. By adopting such alternatives, we contribute to a greener energy mix.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Reducing Water Pollution: Bagasse briquettes serve as an alternative energy source, reducing the need for traditional fuels like firewood. By minimizing the use of firewood,we indirectly contribute to preserving water quality. Deforestation and soil erosion from firewood collection can lead to water pollution. Mitigating Climate Change: By promoting bagasse briquettes, we indirectly contribute to climate change mitigation. Stable climate conditions are essential for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems. The project aligns with “Life Below Water” by promoting sustainable energy alternatives, conserving water ecosystems, and contributing to a healthier environment for marine life.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

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02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Forest Preservation and Deforestation Mitigation: Bagasse briquettes serve as an alternative energy source, reducing the need for traditional fuels like firewood. By minimizing the use of firewood, we indirectly contribute to preserving forests and terrestrial ecosystems. Healthy forests are essential for biodiversity, soil health, and overall land sustainability. Reducing Pressure on Natural Resources: By using bagasse briquettes, we reduce the demand for firewood and charcoal. This eases pressure on forests, soil, and water resources, contributing to sustainable land management. The project thus positively impacts “Life on Land” by promoting sustainable energy alternatives and conserving forests.

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

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02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Inclusive Institutions and Decision-Making: SDG 16 aims to build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions. Transparent, evidence-based decision-making is crucial for prosperity, health services, education, and infrastructure. Our project contributes indirectly by promoting sustainable energy alternatives and economic opportunities, which rely on well-functioning institutions.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

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02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Collaboration and Partnerships: The project can collaborate with various stakeholders, including sugar mills, local communities, research institutions, and government agencies. By fostering partnerships, the project can enhance its impact and promote knowledge sharing. Technology Transfer and Capacity Building: Collaborating with experts and organizations can help improve briquette production techniques. Resource Mobilization and Funding: Partnerships can attract funding and resources. Joint efforts can secure financial support for scaling up the project. Local and Global Impact: Partnerships bridge local and global efforts. The project can share best practices and lessons learned with other regions facing similar challenges.

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.

6

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

7 - Strongly Agree

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

3

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

6

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

6

05.08 Justification

Integrated Waste Management: The project combines waste management and renewable energy production. By utilizing bagasse, it addresses both environmental concerns (waste reduction) and energy needs. Local Economic Impact: The project creates employment opportunities for local communities. It empowers farmers, workers, and entrepreneurs by involving them in the value chain. Eco-Friendly Alternative: Bagasse briquettes serve as a sustainable alternative to traditional firewood. They reduce deforestation and contribute to carbon sequestration. Customized Briquette Design: Innovate by designing briquettes specifically for local cooking stoves. Optimize shape, size, and combustion properties for efficient use. Community Awareness and Education: Conduct workshops and awareness campaigns on benefits. Educate users about proper briquette usage and handling. Collaboration with Sugar Mills: Partner with local sugar mills to access bagasse. Establish a reliable supply chain for raw materials

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

Local Community Engagement: Collaboration with local communities, farmers, and workers. Involving them in the project, create jobs, and empower them economically. Establishing partnerships with local organizations, schools, and community centers to raise awareness about sustainable energy and waste management. Efficient Production Process: Optimizing the briquette production process to minimize waste, energy consumption, and emissions. Using innovative techniques for bagasse drying, shredding, and briquetting. Ensure consistent quality and affordability of the briquettes. Innovation and Research: Investing in research and development to improve briquette quality, efficiency, and durability. Explore new uses for bagasse-based briquettes (e.g., cooking, heating, or industrial applications). Market Penetration: Conducting market research to understand demand, pricing, and distribution channels. Develop effective marketing strategies to reach potential customers (households, institution)

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

Advocacy and Policy Influence: Advocatig for policies that support women-owned businesses, such as tax incentives or procurement preferences. Engage with local policymakers to promote gender equality in entrepreneurship. Networking and Mentorship: Organizing networking events specifically for women entrepreneurs. Encourage them to share experiences, collaborate, and learn from one another. Offer mentorship programs where successful entrepreneurs guide aspiring women business owners.