Meet engineers turning waste plastic, old car tyres into petrol

Old car tyres. (Courtesy/iStock)

Tell us about your background

Engineer Michael Nthenge, and my colleague Engineer George Jowi are the founders of Africlean Business Enterprise, a venture that seeks to make the best out of our environment. As engineers, we are deeply passionate about bioenergy and waste management.

Tell us about your venture

Africlean Business Enterprise is a pyrolysis plant that focuses on recycling plastic waste and old car tires. We launched this venture in April 2023, driven by the urgent need to address the plastic waste crisis in Kenya and to promote sustainable waste management practices. Our motivation stems from a commitment to environmental stewardship and the desire to create innovative solutions that contribute to a greener economy. By converting waste into valuable products, we aim to reduce environmental pollution while generating economic opportunities for local communities.

Your products are unique, please tell us more….

The oil product we produce is a bioplastic fuel derived from biomass organic waste and plastic waste, utilizing a specialized and standardized process known as pyrolysis. Pyrolysis involves heating raw materials in an oxygen-deprived reactor, breaking down hydrocarbon molecules into liquid through a condensation process. This yields liquid fuels such as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene. The process also leaves a residue known as black hydrocarbon, which has industrial applications, particularly in dyes. Additionally, the syngas produced is used both for domestic purposes and as a fuel source to sustain the reactor’s operations.

Who are your clients?

Our clients are heavy engine machines and all engines with less than four strokes. They include trucks, generators and power saws.

Why would someone use fuel generated from plastic waste?

Our products stand out in the market due to their superior qualities, including higher viscosity, higher flash point, and being sulfur-free. They also have a longer burning time compared to conventional fuels. Our products are environmentally friendly, made from waste materials, and typically have a lower carbon footprint than conventional fuels.

Besides, our pricing is slightly lower than conventional options, primarily influenced by the cost of raw materials, specifically plastic waste. We set our prices competitively, factoring in the cost savings from waste reduction and the added value of the environmental benefits our products provide.

Kenyans should embrace this product as it represents African innovation, derived from a waste recovery process that promotes green energy with minimal environmental impact. It not only saves costs and energy but also reduces waste, creates jobs, and contributes to building a more sustainable economy.

Have Kenyans embraced this?

As a new product in the market, clients who have tested it are highly satisfied. It is priced affordably and is less flammable compared to other available products. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a premium, sulfur-free and unleaded fuel.

How can the government and stakeholders support ventures such as yours?

The government and stakeholders can further support by offering grants, tax incentives, and investing in infrastructure to promote green innovation and sustainable development.

Where are you located and how do you reach customers?

We are based in Kisumu and engage with our clients through a multilevel marketing approach. This includes raising awareness through market forums, social media, conferences and active community involvement.

How are you planning to expand your operations?

The company is planning to expand its operations across the country and, if possible, to the rest of the continent. Since the machine is locally fabricated, this makes expansion more feasible and streamlined. Additionally, we aim to integrate more advanced recycling technologies to enhance efficiency as we grow.

Your parting shot?

Together, we can transform waste into wealth, driving Kenya towards a sustainable and prosperous future.