What is Green Keeper Africa?
Green Keeper Africa is a Beninese start-up, born in 2014 thanks to the vision of David GNONLONFOUN and Fohla MOUFTAOU. This company designs, manufactures, and markets 100% organic absorbents aimed at professionals who need to control leaks of polluting products. Operating both locally and internationally, Green Keeper Africa focuses on eco-responsible solutions that tackle industrial pollution with a natural touch. Their flagship product, the GKSORB absorbent, is crafted from water hyacinth — an invasive plant turned environmental hero.
Main Benefit: Turning a Problem into a Solution
What makes Green Keeper Africa stand out? It’s their innovative use of water hyacinth, a plant often seen as a nuisance, but here, it’s a game changer. Check this out:
- Water hyacinth can absorb up to 17 times its weight in hydrocarbons.
- The plant’s continuous harvesting reduces its negative impact on biodiversity and water quality.
- Green Keeper Africa transforms this biomass into absorbent fibers that control oil pollution effectively.
- The company’s solutions link ecology, economy, and social benefits — one plant, three advantages!
- They’ve been refining industrial processes for over 5 years, boosting both environmental and economic value.
Innovative Valorization of Water Hyacinth
Instead of fighting against the water hyacinth invasion, Green Keeper Africa embraces it. The company’s approach is all about valorization — turning a problem into profit and sustainability. By harvesting this invasive plant continuously, they not only reduce its harmful effects but also create profitable processing sectors. This clever strategy supports local economies while protecting ecosystems. It’s a win-win situation that’s both smart and sustainable.
Expanding Horizons: New Sectors and Growth
Green Keeper Africa isn’t stopping at absorbents. With five years of experience under their belt, they’re stepping into new territories. This includes producing eco-materials for construction, crafting biochar to serve as fertilizer and water retainer for agricultural soils, and even venturing into metalworking to manufacture industrial decanters. This diversification shows their commitment to innovation and sustainable industrial development.
Inspired by Nature: Biomimicry at Work
Innovation at Green Keeper Africa draws heavily from biomimicry — that’s learning from nature’s own operating chains to solve human challenges. Their solutions are tailored to local realities and industrial needs, blending economic and environmental goals. The company thrives on collective intelligence and collaborative innovation, making sure their products resonate with both communities and industries alike. It’s about smart solutions that fit the context perfectly.
Project Impact: Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation — by improving water quality through pollution control.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — creating jobs and profitable sectors around water hyacinth processing.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure — developing eco-friendly industrial solutions.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
- SDG 15: Life on Land — protecting biodiversity by managing invasive species.
Green Keeper Africa’s Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Green Keeper Africa aims to deepen its impact by professionalizing its manufacturing processes and expanding its product range. Their vision is clear: to offer natural, effective solutions that meet the economic and environmental expectations of both local populations and industrial players. By fostering innovation rooted in nature and collaboration, they’re setting a new standard for sustainable industrial practices in Africa and beyond.
