Plastic waste is a global crisis that threatens our environment and the well-being of future generations. As the amount of plastic waste continues to rise, innovative solutions are urgently needed to address this pressing issue. One such solution is Kubik, a pioneering upcycling startup that is revolutionizing the construction industry. Kubik does this by transforming hard-to-recycle plastic waste into affordable and sustainable building materials.
The Plastic Waste Challenge
According to a report by the OECD, the amount of plastic waste produced globally is set to triple by 2060, reaching over 1,000 million tonnes. Developed countries currently produce the most plastic waste per person. However, emerging regions like Africa and Asia are expected to experience the fastest growth. This is due to rapid population growth and urbanization. Plastic pollution has already become a menace, altering environments and endangering lives. However, there is hope on the horizon as the share of recycled plastic is projected to nearly double to 17% by 2060.
Kubik: A Leader in Plastic Waste Reuse
Africa, in particular, is witnessing the rise of companies like Kubik that are at the forefront of plastic waste reuse and sustainability efforts. Kubik, an upcycling startup with operations in Kenya and Ethiopia, is actively salvaging plastic waste and turning it into affordable building materials. Currently, Africa only recycles a mere 4% of the waste it produces. Kubik aims to change this by removing 45,000 kgs of plastic waste from landfills every day.
Transforming Plastic Waste into Building Materials
Kubik specializes in upcycling hard-to-recycle plastic waste (polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene) into building materials like bricks, columns, beams, and jambs. These innovative products provide a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials, reducing the environmental impact of the industry. By utilizing plastic waste, Kubik addresses plastic pollution and helps create affordable housing solutions.
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Scaling Production in Ethiopia
Founded in 2021 by Kidus Asfaw and Penda Marre, Kubik has already made considerable strides in its mission. The startup is now planning to double down on the production of building materials in Ethiopia, leveraging a recent $3.34 million seed funding round.
With its plant in Ethiopia, Kubik has the capacity to build over a quarter million square meters of wall surface area every year. This means Kubik has the potential to construct up to 10,000 affordable homes annually, making a significant impact in addressing the global housing deficit that disproportionately affects the low income earners.
Recognitions and Awards
Kubik’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability have garnered recognition and accolades from various prestigious platforms. The startup won the title of Startup of the Year at the 2023 Global Startup Awards and received recognition as the leading climate tech startup in Africa at the VivaTech conference. These accolades validate Kubik’s mission and highlight the importance of its contribution to addressing Africa’s most pressing challenges.
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Strategic Partnerships and Investments
Kubik’s vision and unique business model have attracted the attention of several investors who recognize the transformative potential of the startup. Notable investors that participated in the recent seed funding round include Plug & Play, Bestseller Foundation, GIIG Africa Fund, Satgana, Unruly Capital, Savannah Fund, African Renaissance Partners, Kazana Fund, Princeton Alumni Angels, and Andav Capital. These partnerships and investments provide Kubik with the necessary resources to scale its operations and expand its impact across Africa.
Building with Strength and Affordability
One of the key advantages of Kubik’s building materials is their strength and affordability. The interlocking design of the bricks, columns, beams, and jambs allows developers to erect walls without the need for cement, aggregates, and steel. Despite this, Kubik’s products maintain the integrity of the buildings. This is because their strength is on par with cement-based walls, ensuring no compromise.
Additionally, these materials are at least 40% cheaper per square meter, making them an attractive option for affordable housing projects. Kubik’s building materials are chemically safe, anti-flammable, and non-degradable, ensuring the safety and durability of the constructed buildings.
A Low-Carbon and Sustainable Solution
In addition to their affordability and strength, Kubik’s building materials also offer significant environmental benefits. They are low-carbon, with a greenhouse gas emission at least five times less than that of cement-based products. By utilizing plastic waste and reducing the reliance on traditional construction materials, Kubik contributes to a more circular use of plastics and helps combat climate change.
With the world urbanizing rapidly and cities grappling with unmanaged plastic waste and unaffordable housing, Kubik’s low-carbon building solution presents a promising opportunity to address these interconnected challenges.
Conclusion
Kubik is leading the charge in revolutionizing the construction industry by upcycling plastic waste into affordable and sustainable building materials. With its operations in Kenya and Ethiopia, the startup is making a significant impact in Africa’s recycling sector.
As the amount of plastic waste continues to rise globally, Kubik’s innovative approach offers a glimmer of hope. By addressing the plastic pollution problem and embracing a circular economy, Kubik paves the way for a construction industry that is both environmentally friendly and economically viable.
