We make pavement bricks using plastic waste | Gjenge Makers Journey

Summary

Founders Connect Africa introduces Jenga, a startup turning plastic waste into durable pavers for construction. The team, comprising four engineers, has developed a production line that recycles waste into building materials, offering a sustainable solution to pollution. Despite initial challenges, they've gained market acceptance and are now looking to scale up and diversify their product line. They also discuss the broader waste management industry's potential and the importance of a circular economy.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Founders Connect Africa is a team of changemakers focused on sustainable solutions for plastic waste pollution.
• 🏗️ The team, consisting of mechanical and industrial engineers, produces alternative building products like pavers from waste plastic.
• 🔧 They have been in operation for two years and have spent four years on research and development before launching their product.
• 🛠️ The machinery used in production was custom-built by the team after they couldn't find existing machines that met their needs.
• 📈 Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, they have seen a positive reception and increasing orders for their products.
• 🏢 They are now fully certified by the Kenya Bureau of Standards, which was a hurdle they had to overcome to bring their product to market.
• 🚀 The team's next steps include targeting larger projects and diversifying their product line beyond the current rectangular pavers.
• 💪 Their products are durable, capable of holding three times the weight of concrete, and are also customizable in color and design.
• ♻️ The business model aligns with the growing push for production responsibility and a circular economy in waste management.
• 💰 The founders emphasize the importance of a strong 'why' and persistence, having faced numerous rejections before securing investment.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Founders Connect Africa?

Founders Connect Africa focuses on creating sustainable solutions for plastic waste pollution by producing alternative building products from waste plastic.

Who are the team members of Jenga, as mentioned in the script?

The team members of Jenga include David, a mechanical engineer, Kim, an industrial engineer, Cheng, also a mechanical engineer and an expert in machinery processes, and the speaker who describes themselves as 'tagging along'.

What inspired the team to start Jenga?

The team was inspired to start Jenga with the dream of finding a practical and sustainable solution to plastic waste pollution by using it to address the need for affordable building materials.

What products does Jenga produce?

Jenga produces pavers, which are used for sidewalks, food courts, and driveways, made from waste plastic.

How long has Jenga been in operation?

Jenga has been in operation for two years, with the product officially launched in the market in the second year, and the research and development phase spanning approximately four years.

What challenges did Jenga face in the beginning?

Initial challenges included being a small team with limited resources, the need for certification by the Kenya Bureau of Standards, and the lack of established waste management structures.

What are Jenga's plans for the future?

Jenga plans to target bigger projects, work with government and large construction corporations, and diversify their product range beyond the current rectangular pavers.

How does Jenga differentiate its products from competitors?

Jenga's products are three times stronger than concrete, customizable in color and design, lighter than concrete for easier transportation, and are part of a circular economy as they can be recycled.

What advice does the team have for young people interested in waste management solutions?

The team advises young people to be true to their 'why', which is the reason behind their motivation, and to persevere through challenges and rejections.

How did Jenga secure investment for their business?

Jenga secured investment by demonstrating a working prototype and engaging in numerous discussions with potential investors, showing persistence and a strong team capable of executing their vision.

What is the production process like for Jenga's pavers?

The production process involves mixing sand with crushed plastic, adding color pigment, heating and extruding the mixture, pressing it into molds using a hydraulic press, and finally cooling the pavers before they are removed and further cooled.