Zimbabwe - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

MadZone Energy Pbc is a Renewable Energy based startup project whose initiative is to provide sufficient, renewable,Affordable and environment friendly source of energy, from small to large scale consumers. Biogas production being the main focus

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Biogas is a gaseous renewable energy source produced from raw materials such as agricultural waste, manure, municipal waste, plant material, sewage, green waste, wastewater, and food waste. Biogas is produced by anaerobic digestion with anaerobic organisms or methanogens inside an anaerobic digester, biodigester or a bioreactor. Anaerobic digester breaks down biomas e.g food waste,manure in a controlled environment to produce biogas (CH4 &C02). Our aim as MadZone Energy is to provide our knowledge,skills to help develop underprivileged communities especial remote areas with no access to Electricity power grids (Zesa) or access to LP gas to produce their own Gas for cooking, heating during winter and lights. Fertilizer for their farming while conserving their environment by discouraging disforestation, creation of jobs to locals by teaching them basic skills on how to build biodigesters and create revenue which will help in the economical and social development of these communities.

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

Background: Engineers face increasing pressure to manage and utilize waste (whether of animal, human or municipal origin) in a sustainable way. We suggest that a solution to the problem of organic waste in rural communities lies in their being able to convert it to biogas technology. This would offer smallholders and farmers a long-term, cheap and sustainable energy source that is independent of the national electricity grid. However, although the technology involved in making biogas from waste has already been fully developed, there are obstacles impeding its adoption. First, there is a general ignorance about this source of energy among the very people who can most benefit from using it. Second the lack of skilled workforce specializing in construction of these biodigesters. Third: Education on importance and benefits that this projects provides to these communities.

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

Due to the current energy shortages and cost of raising capital in Zimbabwe, it is likely that the national power supply company (ZESA) will be unable to continue expanding its network into the rural areas. This has given impetus to the search for alternative energy sources. Biogas offers a cheap, renewable and viable solution to the problem of providing energy to rural communities and farmers and also has the merit of using waste that has been traditionally regarded as useless, as the feedstock. The technology involved in biogas production is fairly simple and can be implemented cheaply and efficiently by means of small-scale digesters that are easy to use and maintain. These household biodigesters can offer benefits to all spheres of society but have a particular bearing on the needs of farmers in rural areas. They can use the gas produced for cooking and lighting, for charging batteries from running biogas generators, and for fertilizing crops with the residual waste.

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

Although Biogas is meant for everyone, our main focus is Communal areas as this project serves to develop areas mostly cut out of the National Power Grid and locals have resorted to survive on use of other fossils like Charcoal,firewood, LP gas etc and some of these fossils have shown some negative effects to the environment and yet they come with less benefits to these communities. Biogas project serves to benefit this targeted group in various ways that not only does it come as a sufficient source of energy but it comes with huge package of benefits to these communities. 1. It provides a safe an clean environment for these communities 2. Its a long term project that comes with long term benefits as long as proper maintenance is done 3.Community developments, employment creation, good sanitation as all waste is collected for bio-gas production 4. Increase in farm outputs,due to fertilized farm lands 5.Communal land industrialization,due to availability of electrical power

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-11-01

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

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

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

Dumisani Moyo Retired Sales rep with experience of over 20 years in sales and marketing Outstanding Serving Community member of Mpopoma Residents Association with close to 6 years of service Former Secretary for Environment on ward Currently Self employed Handy man with plumbing, electrician,Tiling and painting skills 2. Sikhumbuzo Gabellah Currently doing Home Nursing An enthusiast who has participated in a lot of community development projects A Wife and a mother of 4 Passionate tailor or dressmaker Out spoken and a good team leader 3. Docus Nare Sales Manager at Kemabos Chemicals(company specializes on removal of waste from septic tanks, Blair toilets ,Pit latrines etc) Student at Lupane State University Very Passionate about her job and a good team leader

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

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

This project provides one of the basic needs for community development which is vital for economic growth which contributes to the UN (SDGs) no poverty goal. It creates employment for the locals 2.It creates business growth 3. increase in demand for biodigester building materials, tools etc 4.Creates regeneration to long term abused environment which contributes to scenery which attracts tourism Its an affordable and sustainable energy source which means even the less privileged communities can benefit

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

5

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Biogas production significantly contributes to achieving the Zero Hunger goal (SDG 2) in several ways: Bio-slurry as Fertilizer: Biogas systems generate bio-slurry, an effective organic fertilizer. When applied to crops, bio-slurry enhances smallholder farmer productivity and improves the nutritional quality of agricultural produce. Reducing Indoor Air Pollution: By substituting solid biomass-based domestic fuels (such as wood or dung) with biogas, we improve indoor air quality. This positively impacts health and well-being, especially in low-income farming communities. Treating and Recycling Sewage and Organic Wastes: Biogas facilities treat sewage and organic waste, reducing odors and preventing the spread of diseases. Proper waste management contributes to better sanitation and overall health. Energy Access for Cooking and Heating: Biogas provides a clean energy source for cooking and heating, supporting food preparation and reducing reliance on traditional fuel

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

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Biogas production contributes to good health and well-being in several ways: Reducing Indoor Air Pollution: By substituting solid biomass-based domestic fuels (such as wood or dung) with biogas, we can improve indoor air quality. Biogas is a cleaner alternative for cooking and heating, reducing harmful emissions and health risks. Treating and Recycling Sewage and Organic Wastes: Biogas facilities treat sewage and organic waste, reducing odors and preventing the spread of diseases. Proper waste management contributes to better sanitation and overall health. Mitigating Methane Emissions: Biogas production captures methane from food and farming wastes, preventing its release into the atmosphere. This helps combat climate change and improves global health. Removing Nitrogen Pollution: Biogas systems remove animal manure and food waste from the environment, preventing nitrogen pollution and runoff into water resources.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

5

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Biogas projects is a mostly a research based project and it required a skill both theoretical and practical and due to discoveries and update to research literature one is bound to lifelong learning and teaching opportunities Biogas production contributes to quality education in several ways: Energy Access for Schools: Biogas can provide clean and reliable energy for schools, ensuring stable electricity, lighting, and heating. This enables effective teaching and learning. Reducing Indoor Air Pollution: By replacing traditional fuels (like firewood) with biogas, schools improve air quality. Healthy environments enhance students’ focus and well-being. Educational Demonstrations: Biogas systems serve as educational tools. Students learn about anaerobic digestion, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability. Agricultural Education: Biogas projects integrate waste management and resource utilization into the curriculum. Students understand circular economy principles.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

This projects promotes gender equality, most of the project work according to research it has proved to be inclusive and promotes all genders, from building of BD (bio-digester) to manure or waste collections etc.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

6

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

The collection of manure and other waste materials from fruits, vegetables etc which are some of the main waste which pollute water sources are removed and used for bio gas digestion there would be availability of much clean water and sanitation

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Biogas is a clean and affordable source of energy, it comes with a once of cost of building the digesters. Another advantage is that material can be sourced locally. It is a gas that is produced anaerobically though fermentation of water materials mostly from the land fills, e.g cow manure, fruit and vegetable pealing etc

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

Biogas production has several positive impacts on both work opportunities and economic growth: Job Creation: Biogas projects create employment opportunities, especially in rural areas. These jobs range from manufacturing and installation of biogas systems to maintenance and operation. Additionally, the supply chain for biogas equipment and feedstock collection generates employment. Local Economy: Biogas contributes to the local economy by promoting small-scale entrepreneurship. Farmers and entrepreneurs can set up biogas plants, sell bio gas-generated electricity, and provide maintenance services. This decentralized approach boosts economic activity in communities. Waste Management: Biogas plants effectively manage organic waste, reducing the need for landfill disposal. By converting waste into energy, they address environmental concerns while creating economic value. Resource Recovery: Biogas turns waste (such as agricultural residues, animal manure, and food scraps

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

6

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

Biogas production plays a crucial role in advancing industry innovation and infrastructure. Biomethane: Biogas can be upgraded into biomethane, also known as renewable natural gas (RNG). Biomethane can be injected into natural gas pipelines or used as a vehicle fuel, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner transportation Energy Generation: Biogas, produced through anaerobic digestion of organic materials, can be used for heat and electricity generation in engines, microturbines, and fuel cells. This renewable energy source contributes to sustainable power supply Supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Biogas aligns with several SDGs, including climate action (Goal 13), poverty eradication (Goal 1), and responsible consumption and production (Goal 12). Its versatility makes it a valuable contributor to sustainable development across sectors and communities

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

5

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

Biogas production plays a significant role in contributing to reduced inequalities through several avenues: Energy Access and Poverty Reduction: Biogas provides clean energy for cooking, heating, and electricity production. By making energy accessible to rural and low-income communities, it helps reduce disparities in energy access. Improved access to energy enhances livelihoods, reduces poverty, and promotes economic development. Agricultural Productivity and Food Security: Biogas systems produce bio fertilizers as a byproduct. These fertilizers enhance soil health and crop yields, benefiting smallholder farmers. Increased agricultural productivity contributes to food security and reduces hunger, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) .

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

5

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Biogas production plays a crucial role in creating sustainable cities and communities. Here’s how: Reducing Air Pollution: Biogas is generated through anaerobic digestion (AD), which breaks down organic material in sealed containers. By using biogas for cooking, heating, cooling, electricity, or vehicle fuel, we reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut emissions. This helps improve urban air quality by reducing pollutants like black soot and methane. Waste Management: Biodegradable waste, such as food waste, sewage sludge, and agricultural residues, can be used to produce biogas. Biogas plants provide an effective waste-management solution, converting organic waste into energy. This contributes to cleaner cities and reduces the strain on existing waste management systems. Economic Benefits: Biogas production creates jobs, especially in rural areas where biomass resources are abundant. It also reduces energy

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

Biogas production contributes to responsible consumption and production in several ways: Waste-to-Energy Conversion: Biogas is produced from organic waste materials such as agricultural residues, food scraps, and sewage sludge. By converting these wastes into energy, biogas helps reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal and promotes responsible resource utilization. Reduced Pollution: Biogas production reduces the pollution potential in wastewater. It converts oxygen-demanding organic matter that could otherwise cause low oxygen levels in surface waters. Additionally, nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus are conserved in biogas effluents and can be used as fertilizers in crop production. Climate Change Mitigation: Biogas can replace fossil fuels (such as natural gas) in various applications. Using biogas instead of petrol or diesel significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation. Circular Economy: Biogas exempli

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

Biogas production plays a crucial role in climate action by offering several benefits: Reducing Methane Emissions: Biodigesters, which produce biogas, help cut methane emissions. When organic waste, manure, food scraps, or agricultural residue undergo anaerobic digestion, they produce biogas containing 50-75% methane. By using biogas, we reduce methane emissions, which is essential because methane is a potent greenhouse gas.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

6

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Biogas production plays a crucial role in supporting life below water.Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Biogas is generated through a process called anaerobic digestion, where microbes break down organic material in sealed containers. This process captures organic waste and converts it into biogas. By using biogas as a renewable energy source for cooking, heating, cooling, or electricity production, we reduce the need for fossil fuels. This, in turn, helps mitigate climate change by lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Studies show that biogas can reduce global GHG emissions by 18-20% Recycling Nutrients and Organic Content: Biodegradable wastes, such as food waste, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge, are rich in nutrients. Biogas production not only generates energy but also returns these nutrients and organic content to the soil. This benefits aquatic ecosystems by promoting healthy soil and nutrient cycling.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Biogas production significantly contributes to life on land in several ways: Reducing Organic Waste: Biogas is generated through a process called anaerobic digestion (AD), where microbes break down organic material in sealed containers. By capturing organic waste (such as food scraps, agricultural residues, and sewage sludge), biogas production reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or release pollutants into the environment Renewable Energy Source: Biogas serves as a renewable energy source. It can be used for cooking, heating, cooling, and electricity production. By utilizing biogas, we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, which helps mitigate climate change and lowers carbon emissions

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

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Biogas production contributes to peace, justice, and strong institutions in several ways: Reducing Conflict and Violence: Access to clean energy through biogas can mitigate resource-related conflicts. When communities have sustainable energy sources, tensions decrease, promoting peace. Rule of Law and Accountability: Biogas projects require legal frameworks and institutional support. Strengthening institutions ensures fair implementation, accountability, and adherence to environmental regulations. Inclusive Participation: Biogas initiatives involve local communities, fostering inclusivity. When people actively participate in decision-making, it promotes justice and transparency. Combating Corruption: Biogas systems reduce reliance on fossil fuels, minimizing corruption associated with energy procurement. Transparent processes enhance trust in institutions. Empowering Vulnerable Groups: Biogas benefits marginalized populations, providing economic opportunities and reducing vulnerability. This empowerment contributes to stronger institutions. By promoting sustainable energy, biogas supports peace, justice, and resilient societies. Let’s work together for a better future!

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Biogas production plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable development, particularly in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Let’s explore how biogas contributes to specific goals: Zero Hunger (SDG 2): Biogas can enhance food security by improving agricultural productivity. It provides an alternative energy source for cooking and processing food, reducing reliance on traditional biomass fuels. Additionally, biogas systems can recycle organic waste into valuable fertilizers, benefiting smallholder farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture. Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG 7): Biogas is a renewable energy source that reduces dependence on fossil fuels. By converting organic waste into biogas, we create a clean energy option for cooking, heating, and electricity generation. This contributes to energy access, especially in rural areas, while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

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

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

3

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.

5

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.

5

05.08 Justification

Despite the fact that my project idea is not widely used compared to most of these well known Energy sources, like Hydroelectricity, Thermal power generation,LPG gas, Charcoal,Solar, etc .i still believe it's unique and innovative projects which does not only provide income, but also an Environmental friendly and inexpensive source of energy which can benefit people in most remote areas with not just one output but multiple outputs

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

In Zimbabwe, there are notable initiatives and organizations contributing to biogas production: National Domestic Biogas Programme: This successful program, in partnership with HIVOS, the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation, and Irrigation Development, and the Renewable Energy Fund, promotes biogas adoption. Over 150 biogas digesters have been constructed so far, benefiting rural households by providing clean energy for cooking, lighting, and productive use. The program operates in Insiza, Chegutu, Goromonzi, and Mvuma1. Chipinge Town Council Project: In Chipinge, Zimbabwe, the town council has initiated a biogas digester project. They utilize biodegraded waste from the marketplace to produce biogas, meeting the energy needs of local businesses and residents. This project is conducted in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)2. UNDP’s Efforts: The UNDP in Zimbabwe recognizes the importance of biogas as a sustainable energy solution. Given the country’s deforestation challenges (losing an estimated 257,000 hectares of forest annually), biogas offers an alternative to firewood. Deforestation occurs due to high demand for firewood and land clearing for agriculture, especially in the Zambezi Valley3. While these initiatives demonstrate progress, it’s essential to continue promoting biogas adoption to improve lives, enhance rural incomes, and contribute to sustainable waste management and nutrient recycling in Zimbabwe

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