Climate Curve

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Project Summary / Description:

ETS PROMINDS is an active project in Kananga, Democratic Republic of the Congo, focused on transforming organic waste from households, markets, and small businesses into eco-charcoal (biochar). This process reduces methane emissions from waste, replaces traditional charcoal to prevent deforestation, and provides a sustainable energy source. The biochar also improves soil fertility, supports local agriculture, and creates jobs, empowering communities while directly mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. The project is scalable to other neighborhoods and cities, aiming for measurable climate and social impact.

How Project Affects Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions:

['Replaces/avoids GHGs (e.g., projects that replace sources of GHGs, such as the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heat, transport, or other energy uses)', 'Reduces GHGs (e.g., projects that reduce sources of GHGs, such as through efficiency or other changes in consumption)', 'Removes/stores GHGs (e.g., projects that capture, sequester, or otherwise enhance the "sinks" that accumulate and store GHGs)']

Impact on Underrepresented Groups:

ETS PROMINDS is committed to empowering underrepresented groups, including women, youth, and local communities vulnerable to climate impacts, through both employment and engagement in our climate solutions. Women and young people are actively involved in organic waste collection, biochar production, and community outreach, ensuring that these groups gain technical skills, leadership experience, and sustainable income opportunities.
Our co-founder, Caroline KABATUAKA, plays a key leadership role, exemplifying women’s representation at the decision-making level. Additionally, the team includes local youth from Kananga who contribute to operations and social mobilization efforts. By prioritizing the recruitment, training, and mentorship of these groups, ETS PROMINDS strengthens community ownership and creates pathways for economic empowerment.
Furthermore, our educational workshops and training programs target households and market vendors, emphasizing climate awareness, sustainable waste management, and inclusive participation, ensuring that vulnerable populations are directly involved in the project’s climate impact.
Through this approach, ETS PROMINDS not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also amplifies the voices and participation of groups traditionally underrepresented in the climate movement, fostering equity, resilience, and long-term community engagement in sustainable solutions.