fintech
African startups are taking on climate change by creatively turning waste into valuable resources.
Their work not only helps the environment but also boosts local economies and strengthens communities.
Here’s a look at six standout African startups, their accomplishments, and how they’re helping to combat climate change.
1. Coliba (Ivory Coast)
Since 2015, Coliba has made great progress in managing plastic waste. The company collects and recycles plastic, turning it into granules for use in different industries.
By March 2024, Coliba raised $6 million to expand and aims to secure a total of $11.5 million.
This helps reduce plastic pollution and supports a circular economy by sending recycled materials back into production, lowering the need for new plastic.
Climate Impact: Coliba’s recycling efforts tackle plastic waste, which contributes to global warming and pollution.
By reusing waste, they help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Kubik (Ethiopia)
Kubik uses recycled plastics to make building materials like interlocking bricks.
The company has raised around $3.4 million since starting, and its process emits five times less CO2 than traditional brick-making.
This approach not only makes affordable building materials but also reduces plastic waste in cities.
Climate Impact: By reusing plastics, Kubik helps cut the carbon emissions linked to traditional building materials and promotes sustainable building.
3. Sand to Green (Kenya)
Sand to Green transforms arid lands into fertile, arable areas by using sustainable agriculture, reforestation, and advanced water management techniques.
By addressing land degradation and food security challenges, they’re positioning themselves as leaders in sustainable agriculture for arid regions, with a positive climate impact through soil regeneration and reforestation
4. PEG Africa (Ghana)
PEG Africa has transformed energy access with its pay-as-you-go solar systems, reaching over a million customers in West Africa.
Its recent acquisition of Bboxx now gives it a combined customer base of 3.5 million across 10 countries.
Climate Impact: By offering affordable solar energy, PEG Africa reduces the need for fossil fuels, cutting carbon emissions and boosting energy resilience in underserved areas.
5. Amini (Kenya)
Amini uses artificial intelligence and satellite imagery to create reliable data on soil conditions across Africa.
This helps farmers improve their practices, boosting crop yields while reducing environmental impacts.
Climate Impact: Amini’s technology encourages sustainable farming that can adapt to climate change, improving food security and cutting greenhouse gases from agriculture.
