In a bid to tackle deforestation and climate change, the Mzimba Youth Organization (MYO) has developed an innovative solution: charcoal briquettes made from organic waste materials.
According to Anthony Botha, MYO’s head of programs, the organization recognized the urgent need to address deforestation in their community.
They wanted to find out which way will be a sustainable alternative to traditional charcoal and firewood.
The briquettes are made from a variety of materials, including cassava peels, banana peels and leaves, sugarcane peel, pinecones, sweet and Irish potato peels, and rice husks.
“We have tested over 14 raw materials to ensure our briquettes are effective and eco-friendly,” Botha noted.
Since February, MYO has produced over 3,000 kilograms of briquettes, training 14 youth clubs, 300 households, and 554 individual clients.
“Our goal is to empower Malawians with the skills to make and use these briquettes, reducing pressure on trees and promoting sustainable practices, we are committed to contributing and making a positive impact on our environment,” Botha emphasized.
MYO’s initiative aligns with Malawi’s National Charcoal Strategy (2017-2027), which aims to reduce biomass shortage by 2030.
The organization’s efforts have also improved waste management in homes, communities, and public spaces, according to Botha they have seen a significant change in how people perceive waste and its potential uses.
MYO’s services cater to everyone, regardless of age, and focus on education empowerment, youth and women’s participation in politics and governance, environmental management, climate change resilience, land rights advocacy, and sexual reproductive health rights.
Ministry of industry and Trade spokesperson Patrick Botha has hailed the Mayo initiative for creating free environment meanwhile creating jobs to their fellow youths.
