PlasFuel Initiative

"Transforming plastic waste into clean cooking fuel using innovative technology for environmental sustainability and economic empowerment in Uganda

Long description

My project is about recycling plastic waste into gas, a clean and low-cost alternative to charcoal and fossil fuels. I aim to address the problems of plastic waste and energy poverty in Uganda and Africa, which affect the environment and human health. Uganda generates 600 tonnes of plastic waste daily, but only 40 per cent is recycled (NEMA, 2018). The rest causes pollution, degradation, and diseases. Plastic waste also emits greenhouse gases, threatening marine life and climate change (UNEP, 2017). Uganda also lacks clean and affordable energy, especially in rural areas, where 90 per cent of households use firewood or charcoal (UBOS, 2019). These fuels cause indoor air pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion, leading to respiratory diseases, biodiversity loss, and land degradation (The Atlantic, 2021). My project uses Soot-free reactive extraction technology to convert plastic waste into gas, which can be used for cooking, heating, powering vehicles and generators. My project benefits the environment, the people, and the economy. It aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 7, 11, 12, and 13.