We are thrilled to introduce our newest grantee, James Muritu, founder of Progreen, a company at the forefront of developing sustainable energy solutions in Kenya. James’ journey is not just about entrepreneurship—it's about turning a passion for environmental conservation into a groundbreaking business that aims to fight plastic pollution and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
A Journey Back Home to Kenya
James Muritu’s story began in 2012 when, after nearly a decade of working and traveling abroad, he returned to Kenya. Settling into a property 54 kilometers from Nairobi, James was immediately struck by the overwhelming plastic pollution in his community. One particular rainy season brought the issue to his doorstep—literally. Heavy rainstorms caused his property to flood because plastic waste had clogged the drainage systems. It was at that moment that James’ curiosity about the plastic waste problem was piqued, setting him on a path to finding a solution.
Eight Years of Research, One Transformative Idea
For many, encountering such a pressing issue might lead to frustration, but for James, it became a personal challenge. He took eight years to research and develop what would become the foundation of Progreen. He asked himself, “What’s the best solution to fighting plastic pollution?” The answer, he found, lay in transforming waste plastic into a viable, eco-friendly fuel alternative.
In 2023, James’ hard work bore fruit. He successfully created a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) capable of converting plastic waste into an alternative fuel. But that wasn’t the end of his innovation. James’ work didn’t stop with merely addressing plastic pollution—he aimed higher. By enriching the fuel with biomass and organic waste, James has pushed his innovation even closer to becoming a fully-fledged biofuel solution, providing an even more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Innovating for the Future: A Stealthy Revolution in Cooking Gas
Beyond his breakthrough with biofuels, James has another exciting project in development. He’s working in stealth mode on a second innovation that could revolutionize how we cook. His goal is to create an alternative cooking gas that can replace fossil-based options, helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce the environmental impact of one of the most common household energy sources.
This vision of providing alternative fuel solutions, both for vehicles and for homes, positions Progreen as a critical player in the fight against climate change. James envisions a future where his contributions will help communities around the world move away from fossil fuels, empowering them with eco-friendly, sustainable options.
Progreen’s Vision: A Sustainable Future
James Muritu’s work at Progreen is about more than just business—it's a movement. His journey from being a curious observer of plastic pollution to becoming a climate change advocate is an inspiring example of how personal experiences can shape global solutions. With his innovative approach to biofuels and alternative energy sources, Progreen is poised to become a leader in sustainable energy, not just in Kenya but around the world.
As our newest grantee, we are excited to support James on his journey and help bring his vision to life. His work is a reminder that tackling climate change requires both innovation and dedication, and we’re proud to stand alongside him as he pioneers non-fossil fuel options for the masses.
Stay tuned for more updates as James continues to develop his groundbreaking innovations at Progreen!