IPRC Kitabi students on converting wood waste into gas, eco-friendly charcoal

Thierry Byiringiro and Toussaint Alain Niyonsaba, forestry engineering and wood technology students at IPRC Kitabi, are revolutionizing charcoal production by converting wood waste into cooking gas and environmentally friendly charcoal briquettes. Their startup, Woodgas.co, offers a sustainable solution to the pressing environmental concerns associated with traditional charcoal-making methods. ALSO READ: Investors weigh in on briquette fuel as an alternative to charcoal Inspired by their studies on charcoal production and observing the harmful environmental impact of conventional methods, Byiringiro and Niyonsaba embarked on their innovative project. They developed a step-by-step process to achieve their goals, starting with the collection of wood waste, which is then placed in a small furnace to initiate the carbonization process. During this process, they capture the resulting smoke and convert it into gas using two containers. The first container interacts the smoke with water, while the second container collects the gas, which can be used for cooking. The process also yields charcoal suitable for home cooking without harming the environment. ALSO READ: Local leaders allay fears over charcoal-burning To enhance their operations, Byiringiro and Niyonsaba plan to incorporate an industrial electric furnace, which would expedite the carbonization process. It's important to note that their wood gas, derived from smoke, differs from Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which is extracted naturally from the ground. Their wood gas not only provides an alternative cooking fuel but also contributes to environmental preservation. Byiringiro highlights the abundance of wood waste available from various wood workshops across the country, which currently goes unused and poses a threat to biodiversity and climate change. Their wood gas has a comparable longevity to LPG and is available in 5-kilogram quantities priced at Rwf 5000. However, the team faces challenges due to limited resources. Byiringiro acknowledges their need for modern equipment, such as industrial electrical furnaces, air compressors, and larger containers, to streamline production and expand their supply. Despite these challenges, they express gratitude for the support received from IPRC Kitabi and their ongoing advocacy efforts. Their project gained attention at a recent Higher Learning Institutions Exhibition, where they met partners who expressed enthusiasm and potential interest in funding their initiative. This positive reception strengthens their confidence and determination to address community challenges. The project's initial focus is in Nyamagabe, the location of their college, where they aim to establish a factory and collaborate with local charcoal producers to adopt more sustainable techniques. Byiringiro envisions this approach not only contributing to environmental preservation but also potentially reducing charcoal prices compared to current market rates. ALSO READ: 32 varsity students’ innovations to be linked to investors To realize their vision, securing funds or finding an investor to support their venture is crucial. Byiringiro and Niyonsaba are determined to make a meaningful impact through their wood waste conversion project and bring about positive change in their community.

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IPRC Kitabi students on converting wood waste into gas, eco-friendly charcoal