We are team BioD and we’ve invented a household-sized biodigester that we want to introduce to the developing world as a social enterprise.
Biodigesters turn animal waste into methane which can be used for cooking and lighting, providing a sustainable alternative to firewood or charcoal. This technology has the potential to make a significant impact on families, communities, and the environment
by:
*** Disposing of organic waste -- material that otherwise carries pathogens, produces greenhouse gases when it decomposes, and is generally smelly stuff that
no one wants around.
*** Producing methane gas which can be used for cooking and lighting, and a nutrient-rich sludge that is an excellent fertilizer.
*** Reducing deforestation and all the devastating consequences that go along with it.
*** Reducing the incidence of respiratory illnesses which are responsible for one in eight deaths in the developing world.
*** Saving users time and money, which can help lift families out of poverty.
*** Requiring very little maintenance and being easy to operate.
Our Invention
Maybe you’ve seen biodigesters before and are wondering what’s different about our product. Traditional biodigesters are big projects that involve digging holes and pouring concrete, are harder to maintain because they’re underground, and cost at least twice
as much as our product. The BioD can be purchased and maintained by a single household, and can be moved around as the household’s needs change. And because it’s made out of easily procured materials, in the unlikely event that a component needs replacing
it’s a simple repair.
While many places could benefit from our technology, we've chosen Madagascar for our piloting stage because deforestation and poverty are both pressing concerns there. Over 85% of the island's
flora and fauna are endemic, encompassing 5% of the world's biodiversity. But Madagascar is also one of the poorest countries in the world, with most residents living on less than $2 per day. While the Malagasy take pride in their country's unique biodiversity,
deforestation is an unavoidable part of their lives as many rely on charcoal and firewood for cooking.
The BioD will provide an alternative that will ultimately save them time and money while also reducing the rate of deforestation and loss of ecosystems. And perhaps most importantly it will
reduce indoor air pollution, which is responsible for the high rate or respiratory ailments among the rural Malagasy.
Of course, even the best technology can fail to achieve its goals if it’s not marketed and distributed properly. That’s why our team includes experts in international development, public health, and education as well as engineering, and why we’ve partnered
with organizations in Madagascar such as the Peace Corps, Rotary Club, and University of Antananarivo. As a token of our appreciation we would like to share the beauty of this unique island nation with you. That’s why every donor will receive a thank-you card
featuring photo taken during our trip and email updates as the project matures, so you can see the difference your donation is making in the lives of people there. As the Malagasy like to say:
"All who live under the sky are woven together like one big mat."
For more information visit
http://www.biodenergy.org/. Do you know someone who's interested in wildlife conservation, poverty alleviation, alternative energy, or interesting new technologies? Please consider sharing this story with them!
