Zimbabwe - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

This project focuses on preventing deforestation caused by tobacco farming in Zimbabwe. By promoting sawdust charcoal briquettes as an alternative to firewood, it aims to reduce environmental impact, preserve natural forests, and mitigate carbon emissions

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

My project aims to promote sustainable tobacco curing in Zimbabwe by providing sawdust charcoal briquettes as an eco-friendly alternative to firewood. By partnering with tobacco farming contractors, TIMB, and environmental groups, we manufacture and distribute briquettes to farmers and local communities, focusing on women and youth. The initiative includes setting up briquette production facilities, offering training and resources, and conducting pilot programs to demonstrate cost savings and environmental benefits. We will launch marketing campaigns, provide technical support, and advocate for supportive policies. Our goal is to reduce deforestation and carbon emissions, creating a scalable, community-based solution that encourages the widespread adoption of sustainable practices in tobacco cultivation.

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

Zimbabwe's natural forests are facing irreversible clearing, with a significant loss of tree cover from 2001 to 2022, resulting in a substantial carbon emission of 44 million tons. Tobacco farming alone accounts for 25% of forest loss, consuming large amounts of fuel wood. Despite recommendations to shift to crops promoting food security and public health, fear of economic backlash impedes reform. Conversely, sawdust poses a waste menace, accumulating at a rapid rate in Manicaland province. Large-scale utilization of sawdust through charcoal briquette production presents an opportunity to address deforestation and manage waste effectively.

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

My project provides sawdust charcoal briquettes as a sustainable alternative to firewood for tobacco curing in Zimbabwe. The major benefits include: 1)Environmental Sustainability: By reducing reliance on firewood, we help combat deforestation and lower carbon emissions, preserving forests and contributing to cleaner air. 2)Economic Advantages: Briquettes offer cost savings for farmers and utilize sawdust waste, turning a by-product into a valuable resource. 3)Community Empowerment: The initiative creates jobs and enhances skills, particularly for women and youth, through the establishment of briquette production facilities and comprehensive training programs. Overall, our project promotes eco-friendly tobacco curing, economic growth, and community development, fostering a sustainable and scalable solution.

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

My project targets several key beneficiaries: Tobacco Farmers: In Manicaland province, who will benefit from cost-effective, sustainable sawdust charcoal briquettes for curing tobacco, improving profitability and sustainability. Local Communities: Gaining access to sustainable fuel for cooking and heating, reducing reliance on firewood, preserving forests, and improving air quality. Women and Youth: Focused on job creation and skills development in briquette production, fostering entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Environmental Groups: Benefiting from reduced deforestation and lower carbon emissions, aligning with their conservation goals. Tobacco Industry Stakeholders: Including contractor companies and regulatory bodies, who will meet sustainability goals and environmental regulations. Overall, the project promotes sustainable practices, economic development, and environmental conservation, benefiting farmers, communities, and the environment.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2019-01-01

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

3

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.)

Tichaona Matte, 31, holds a BSc in Biotechnology and is pursuing a BEng in Chemical & Process Engineering. With over 5 years experience in renewable energy and sustainable development, he has worked with UNDP, ILO, and Mutare City Council. Tsitsi Masendu, a 29-year-old female with a degree in Business Administration from Solusi University, brings 5 years of expertise in business development, marketing, and sales. Her professional background equips her with skills in strategic planning, market analysis, and customer engagement. Talent Saunyama, a 30-year-old male, holds a BSc in Natural Resource Management from Africa University. He is the founder of Pedal and Plant, an NGO focused on tree planting. With 4 years of experience in resource conservation and sustainable development, gained from working with the City Council of Mutare and Wildlife and Environment Zimbabwe, Talent brings expertise in environmental stewardship and community engagement initiatives.

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

https://www.facebook.com/XEROzw

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

My project aligns with the No Poverty goal by providing economic, social, and environmental benefits. It offers cost savings for tobacco farmers by replacing expensive firewood with affordable sawdust charcoal briquettes, increasing their income and financial stability. The establishment of briquette production facilities creates jobs, particularly for women and youth, providing stable income and reducing poverty. Training programs enhance skills, fostering entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency. The project promotes sustainable resource use by turning sawdust waste into a valuable product, reducing deforestation and preserving forests, which are vital for rural livelihoods. Improved air quality from reduced firewood use enhances health, lowering medical expenses. By focusing on inclusive growth, the project stimulates local economies, supports community development, and ensures long-term economic resilience, significantly contributing to poverty eradication.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

4

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

This project contributes to the Zero Hunger goal by providing cost-effective sawdust charcoal briquettes as an alternative to firewood, easing the financial burden on farmers and allowing them to allocate more resources to food production. By promoting sustainable tobacco curing practices and reducing deforestation, it helps preserve soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services crucial for agriculture. Job creation and entrepreneurship opportunities in briquette production empower communities economically, improving access to food and enhancing food security. Overall, our project addresses the root causes of hunger through sustainable agriculture, income generation, environmental conservation, and community empowerment.

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

This project contributes to the Good Health and Well-being goal by improving air quality through reduced indoor air pollution, promoting respiratory health, and reducing the incidence of respiratory illnesses. By providing sawdust charcoal briquettes as an eco-friendly alternative to firewood, we mitigate the harmful effects of indoor air pollution, which is a major contributor to respiratory diseases, particularly among women and children. Additionally, by reducing deforestation and preserving local forests, the project helps maintain ecosystems that support clean air, clean water, and overall environmental health, which are essential for promoting good health and well-being. Through training programs and awareness campaigns, we also educate communities about the importance of sustainable practices and environmental conservation, fostering a deeper understanding of the link between environmental health and human health.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

This project advances the Gender Equality goal (SDG 5) by empowering women through job creation and entrepreneurship in briquette production. It provides stable employment, fostering financial independence and economic security. By reducing the need for firewood collection, it saves time for women and girls, allowing them to pursue education and income-generating activities. Training programs enhance women's skills in production and business management, promoting personal and professional development. The project also improves health by reducing indoor air pollution from traditional wood-burning stoves. Involving women in decision-making processes fosters community leadership and ensures their voices are heard.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

4

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

This project contributes to the Affordable and Clean Energy goal by providing a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional firewood for tobacco curing. Sawdust charcoal briquettes offer a cleaner energy source, emitting fewer pollutants compared to firewood, thus improving air quality and reducing indoor air pollution. By promoting the adoption of briquettes, we mitigate the reliance on fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner energy transition. Additionally, the project enhances energy affordability by offering cost-saving opportunities for tobacco farmers, who can allocate more resources to other necessities. Through training programs and awareness campaigns, we educate communities about the benefits of clean energy and sustainable practices, fostering a culture of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship

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

This project contributes to the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal by creating employment opportunities and fostering economic development in rural communities. Through the establishment of briquette production facilities and training programs, we generate jobs, particularly for women and youth, enhancing their livelihoods and contributing to poverty reduction. Additionally, by providing cost-effective sawdust charcoal briquettes as an alternative fuel for tobacco curing, we help tobacco farmers save on fuel costs, improving their economic viability and sustainability. This supports the growth of the agricultural sector and stimulates local economies. Moreover, by promoting sustainable practices and environmental conservation, the project fosters long-term economic resilience and inclusive growth.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

This project contributes to Industry Innovation and Infrastructure goal by introducing innovative solutions for sustainable energy production and fostering the development of infrastructure in rural areas. By promoting the use of sawdust charcoal briquettes as an alternative to firewood, we introduce a novel approach to energy generation that reduces reliance on traditional fuels and mitigates environmental impact. This innovation improves the efficiency and sustainability of tobacco curing and also encourages the adoption of cleaner energy sources in other industries. Additionally, the establishment of briquette production facilities and training programs contributes to infrastructure development by creating new infrastructure for energy production and distribution. Overall this project promotes the integration of sustainable practices into existing industry frameworks, driving innovation and fostering a culture of sustainability.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

This project contributes to reducing inequalities in several ways. Firstly, by providing cost-effective sawdust charcoal briquettes, we alleviate the financial strain on marginalized tobacco farmers. Additionally, through job creation and entrepreneurship opportunities in briquette production, we empower women and youth, addressing gender and generational disparities. Moreover, by promoting sustainable practices, we ensure equitable access to essential resources and environmental benefits for all communities, fostering inclusivity. The substitution of firewood with charcoal briquettes not only eases financial burdens but also liberates valuable time, particularly for women and girls responsible for collecting firewood. This reduction in unpaid labor enables their fuller participation in economic, social, and educational opportunities, contributing to gender equality and reducing inequalities.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

This project supports the Sustainable Cities and Communities goal (SDG 11) by converting sawdust waste into charcoal briquettes, effectively managing waste and reducing environmental pollution in cities like Mutare. It improves air quality by reducing harmful pollutants from firewood smoke, contributing to healthier living conditions. The project promotes resource efficiency, repurposing sawdust into a valuable energy source, and creates economic opportunities through job creation in briquette production, particularly benefiting women and youth. By managing sawdust waste, it reduces fire hazards, enhancing community safety. The project engages local communities in sustainable practices, fostering environmental stewardship. Supporting briquette production infrastructure aids urban development, and educational initiatives raise awareness about sustainable waste management and energy use.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

This project advances the Responsible Consumption and Production goal by adopting a circular economy approach. By converting sawdust waste into charcoal briquettes, it promotes resource efficiency and reduces waste generation. This closed-loop system minimizes the extraction of virgin materials and mitigates environmental impact. Furthermore, by reducing reliance on firewood, it addresses deforestation and carbon emissions, fostering sustainable consumption of natural resources. Economic opportunities are created through briquette production, while community engagement encourages participation in sustainable practices.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

This project supports the Climate Action goal by replacing firewood with sawdust charcoal briquettes for tobacco curing, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It helps prevent deforestation, preserving forests that sequester carbon. Utilizing sawdust waste reduces methane emissions from decomposition. The project promotes renewable energy and fosters sustainable practices, raising climate awareness through community engagement. It encourages sustainable agriculture, reducing the environmental impact of tobacco farming. By providing a reliable energy source, the project enhances community resilience to climate change. Additionally, it influences policy by demonstrating the benefits of sustainable practices, aligning with national and international climate commitments. Overall, the project actively mitigates climate change and promotes sustainability.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

This project supports the Life on Land goal by substituting firewood with sawdust charcoal briquettes for tobacco curing, reducing deforestation and preserving forests. It promotes sustainable forest management by turning waste sawdust into a valuable product, thereby decreasing pressure on forest resources. The project aids biodiversity protection by conserving forest habitats, preventing soil erosion, land degradation biodiversity loss. By utilizing sawdust waste, it prevents environmental pollution and promotes circular economy. Community engagement and education raise awareness about forest conservation, while economic incentives for briquette production empower local communities and reduce reliance on harmful activities. The project's innovative approach to resource management sets a model for sustainable practices, contributing significantly to the preservation of terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity.

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

3

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

This project advances the Partnerships for the Goals by fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including tobacco farming contractors, TIMB, environmental groups, and government agencies. By leveraging shared resources and expertise, it enhances efficiency and effectiveness in addressing deforestation and waste management. The project empowers local communities, especially women and youth, through active involvement in briquette production, promoting local ownership and sustainability. Public-private partnerships with entities like the Forestry Commission and sawdust suppliers support resource mobilization, policy backing, and market access. Aligning with international organizations ensures local actions contribute to global sustainability goals, enhancing the project's impact and scalability. Partnerships with academic and research institutions aid in monitoring and evaluation, driving continuous improvement.

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.

6

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.

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 project is innovative in its holistic approach to address various challenges. It adopts a circular economy model, converting sawdust waste into valuable charcoal briquettes. By tackling deforestation, waste management, and economic development simultaneously, it offers a comprehensive solution. Community empowerment, collaborative partnerships, and innovative technology drive its success. The project's adaptability and scalability ensure its applicability in different contexts, while its climate resilience enhances its long-term impact. Overall, it's a transformative initiative that maximizes positive outcomes for both the environment and the community.

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

The project's main competitors include traditional firewood suppliers, alternative fuel producers, and large-scale tobacco companies. However, its standout features lie in its environmental sustainability, community empowerment, quality, collaboration, and innovation. By repurposing sawdust waste into eco-friendly charcoal briquettes, prioritizing community involvement and job creation, ensuring high product quality and efficiency, fostering collaborative partnerships, and continuously innovating, the project sets itself apart from competitors, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and establishing a strong market presence.

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

This project actively promotes female entrepreneurship by offering tailored training in sawdust charcoal briquette production, ensuring equitable access to resources like equipment and finances, and encouraging leadership roles. It facilitates networking and mentorship opportunities, enhancing skills and confidence. Through recognition and visibility initiatives, it highlights female entrepreneurs' achievements, inspiring others. These actions aim to foster gender equality, empower women economically, and leverage their potential for sustainable community development in Zimbabwe.