The Centre for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation (CCCAM) is initiating a project to convert urban organic waste into clean energy and fertilizer in Embu, Kenya. The project will involve installing ten small-scale anaerobic digesters at key markets and community collection points. These systems will process organic waste from local households and vendors, transforming it into biogas for cooking and a nutrient-rich bio-fertilizer that will support urban farms. At full operation, the initiative will process at least 500 tons of organic waste each month, effectively turning a significant environmental challenge into a valuable resource.

This project is designed to address several critical issues facing Kenyan towns, where large amounts of daily municipal solid waste, of which over 40% is organic, remains unmanaged. By capturing the potent methane that would otherwise be released, the project will work to reduce climate emissions by an estimated 171,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent annually. This initiative will also create sustainable livelihoods by training local youth to operate the digesters and manage the sales of energy and fertilizer, providing them with a significant income source. Additionally, the nutrient-rich digestate by-product will improve soil health and has the potential to increase vegetable yields by up to 15% in urban farms, thereby supporting local food security.

The project is built upon key pillars that will ensure its long-term success. It will utilize digital transformation through a mobile-enabled dashboard to collect real-time data on feedstock input and energy output, which will inform and influence county waste management laws and national green energy policy frameworks. As a model of green sustainability, the initiative will reduce methane emissions, lower pressure on firewood and charcoal, and promote nutrient recycling. It stands as an innovative and decentralized energy system that combines clean technology with existing community waste collection practices.

Ultimately, this initiative is designed to create a circular economy that not only reduces waste and emissions but also generates income, improves soil health, and supports food security for local communities. The team is actively seeking partnerships to help advance its mission.