Ecocycle: Agricultural Waste Management

We strive to create decentralized solutions that enable local communities in
China to effectively manage and use their organic waste. It is a social problem that is difficult to solve due to its complexity.

From geography aspect: Global soil degradation, including issues like salinization and erosion, poses a significant threat to agriculture and food security. Excessive exploitation and contamination of farmland obstruct sustainable agricultural practices, further disrupting the delicate equilibrium of ecosystems. Our innovative approach transforms organic waste to create bioformulations and fertilizers. This strategy tackles these intricate geographical challenges and fosters effective environmental stewardship in the realm of agriculture.

From economy aspect: Traditional waste management methods, which depend on large-scale facilities, require not only significant financial investments in equipment and infrastructure but also extensive land use and high transportation costs. Such financial demands present notable obstacles for underdeveloped regions where agriculture is vital. Our decentralized solution aims to address this issue by lowering costs and offering affordable byproducts such as biofuels and organic fertilizers.

From technology aspect:  The need for advanced waste management solutions becomes critical as we aim to tailor them for diverse agricultural practices. It's essential to create innovative, efficient, cost-effective, and accessible technologies for localized organic waste treatment. Our goal is to harness technology in developing distributed systems that support efficient on-site processing and utilization of organic waste. By doing so, we intend to bridge the existing technological gap and extend our waste management solution to a wider array of farmers and agricultural professionals.

From society aspect: The challenges of waste management are exacerbated by a shortage of human resources and a lack of awareness about the social impacts, especially on smaller farms. Implementing on-site systems calls for targeted education and outreach programs that empower farmers with knowledge of sustainable practices. Our approach includes social initiatives aimed at empowering local communities with the necessary knowledge and tools for effective organic waste management, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

The proposed solution leverages advanced technologies, specifically the AVIAYA (Adaptive Plant Nutrient Intelligent Management Device) and ORIFORI (Soil Carbon and Nitrogen Cycle Analysis and Decision-Making Platform), to achieve rapid degradation and resource utilization of organic waste. Unlike the conventional single-component waste treatment methods, multiple waste such as fallen leaves, straw, and livestock manure are collected and unloaded into AVIAYA, which will undergo several processes including sort and mix waste, enzymatic degradation, and gas-liquid-solid separation. The AVIAYA system utilizes a combination of efficient chemical and enzymatic processes, along with precise control mechanisms, to break down complex organic materials into smaller molecules that benefit the soil. During the enzymatic catalysis phase, enzymes proficiently decompose complex organic molecules, accelerating reactions while reducing by-products. Subsequently, in the microbial transformation process, these simpler compounds are transformed into valuable products, such as biopesticides and organic fertilizers. Together, enzymes and microbes optimize the efficient utilization of organic matter as a resource. By converting waste into a valuable resource that aids in ecological restoration, it enhances crop quality while decreasing chemical dependence, zero waste generation and a 30% reduction in system energy consumption compared to traditional methods, leading to lesser environmental impacts.

Our Ecocycle system is designed to serve the agricultural community, with a focus on small-scale farmers who are often challenged by limited access to sustainable farming resources, soil degradation, and the environmental impact of conventional farming practices. These farmers, integral to the food supply in many regions, frequently grapple with low productivity, high costs, and the ecological consequences of chemical fertilizer use.
The Ecocycle system addresses these challenges by:
- Offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers through our biomass carbon products, which are derived from agricultural waste. This not only improves soil quality and crop yields but also reduces the input costs for farmers.
- Enhancing the economic viability of small-scale farming by decreasing their reliance on expensive chemical inputs, potentially increasing their income through higher crop yields and quality.
- Supporting environmental sustainability by minimizing the use of chemical fertilizers, which can lead to soil and water pollution, and by providing a viable solution for agricultural waste management.
- Empowering farmers with educational resources and training on organic farming practices, enabling them to make informed choices and adopt sustainable methods.
- Fostering a circular economy in agriculture by transforming waste into a valuable resource, promoting a regenerative approach to farming.
- Contributing to the health and well-being of farmers and consumers by reducing the use of chemicals that can have negative effects on both human health and the environment.
- Facilitating community engagement and social inclusion by involving local farmers in the decision-making process and providing them with the tools to improve their livelihoods.
The Ecocycle system aims to impact the lives of small-scale farmers by providing them with a sustainable and economically viable solution that empowers them to improve their land, increase their yields, and become agents of positive environmental change. Through our efforts, we envision a future where farming is not just a means of livelihood but also a path to environmental stewardship and community resilience.

Our team is well-positioned to deliver this solution due to our deep connection with and understanding of the agricultural communities we serve. Our proximity to the communities is not just physical but also philosophical. We have lived and worked with the local farmers, visited multiple agricultural corporations and their farms so we fully understand their needs. The design and implementation of our solution are based on their current situation and goals. Before we made the solution, we have organized some meeting, workshops, and one-on-one interviews with community members to gather their views. Their feedback is central to our design process, which helps make sure our solution is not only technologically advanced but also culturally sensitive and economically viable.

Our team is supported by our diverse backgrounds, including agriculture, biology, environmental science, and business. This diversity brings a range of perspectives and skills, allowing us to address the multiple challenges faced by the communities we serve. We are not outsiders who provide a solution but insiders who working hand-in-hand with the community to co-create a sustainable future.

Moreover, our commitment to the community is long-term. We are not here to solve some problems and move on. Instead, we are dedicated to staying with the communities even after project landing, to ensure that the solution continues to meet their needs and adapts to their changing circumstances. Our team's ongoing presence and engagement with the community show our commitment and also a key factor in our ability to provide the solutions that truly serve the community.

Our journey with the Ecocycle system has been a labor of love, deeply rooted in our commitment to sustainable agriculture and the well-being of our farming communities. We've transformed not just waste but also the future of farming as we know it.

To date, our passion has culminated in the establishment of three robust factories that breathe life into 35 tons of waste daily, converting it into over 15 tons of valuable biomass carbon products. It's not just about the numbers; it's about the potential we see in every piece of waste and the positive impact it can have on our soil and our farmers.
Our site in Shanghai is more than just an experimental site—it's a living testament to what's possible when we innovate with purpose. By integrating our Ecocycle system, we've not only enhanced the efficiency of orange farming but also created a ripple effect of benefits that include reduced chemical inputs, lowered labor costs, and conserved water. The increased yield and improved fruit quality are just the cherries on top.
Partnering with Citrosuco allowed us to take a leap forward, turning orange pomace into a bio-carbon resource that enriches the soil and promotes a harmonious 'zero waste' approach. It's about respecting the land and using its gifts to give back.
We've engaged with the community, listened to their needs, and co-created solutions that resonate with their day-to-day experiences. Our work is not detached; it's intertwined with the lives of the people we serve. While we can't quantify the exact number of beneficiaries yet, the profound effects of our pilots speak volumes about the countless farmers who stand to gain from our efforts.
Our financial milestones are just as promising, with a revenue of $66,559.85 this year and a hopeful projection for a positive net cash flow by 2025. It's a clear indication that our solution isn't just sustainable; it's economically viable and ready to scale.
In essence, our team has built more than a system; we've cultivated a movement that's set to revolutionise agriculture. We're not just observers in this journey; we're participants, deeply invested in shaping a greener, more equitable future for our planet and its people.

We are applying to Solve because we recognise the transformative potential of our Ecocycle system in revolutionising agricultural waste management and sustainable farming practices. Our goal aligns with Solve's mission to address global challenges by connecting innovative solutions with the resources and partnerships needed to scale impact.

Financial Barriers: While we have made significant progress, securing additional funding remains a challenge. We seek financial support to expand our operational capacity, enhance our technology, and reach more farmers. Solve's network could facilitate connections with investors who share our vision for a sustainable future.
Technical Barriers: We are continuously refining our technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Access to advanced technological resources and collaborative opportunities with tech experts could accelerate our innovation. Solve's platform can provide access to such expertise, enabling us to leapfrog current limitations.
Legal Barriers: As we scale, navigating the complex legal landscape of international expansion becomes increasingly critical. We anticipate that Solve's legal partners could offer guidance on regulatory compliance and intellectual property protection, allowing us to focus on our core mission.
Cultural Barriers: Our solution is deeply rooted in the communities we serve. We hope to leverage Solve's diverse community to gain insights into cultural nuances that can inform our local adaptations and enhance the social acceptance of our technology.
Market Barriers: Despite proven benefits, market adoption can be slow due to entrenched practices and risk aversion. Solve's ability to connect us with industry leaders and market influencers could accelerate market penetration and acceptance of our solution.
In summary, our application to Solve is driven by our desire to amplify our impact, not solely to raise funds. We are seeking a collaborative ecosystem that can provide multifaceted support, from financial backing to market access, enabling us to overcome the barriers that hinder the widespread adoption of our sustainable agricultural solution. Through Solve, we aim to catalyse a larger movement towards ecological farming practices that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment at large.

Organic Waste Co-Processing: Our solutiom deviates from conventional single-component waste treatment methods, such as processing fallen leaves, straw, and livestock manure.

Unique Enzymatic Formula: Developed through 20 years of research in prominent laboratories, this formula lowers fermentation temperature (from 300°C to 100°C), increases organic matter solidification, shortens fermentation time (from 12 days to 8 hours), and breaks down into smaller molecular weight peptides.

Lower Investment and Operational Costs: Achieves 70% land use savings, 60% labor cost reduction, 45% decrease in single investment costs, and a one-year investment return period.

Intelligent Component Regulation: 1) Real-time monitoring of organic mineral fertilizer components with smart algorithm adjustments. 2) Enhanced microbial activity and functionality at a lower expense.

Green Process: Zero waste generation, energy efficient process, elimination of pathogens and pest eggs, and a 30% reduction in system energy consumption compared to traditional methods.

Elimination Waste: This method not only reduces agricultural waste but also produces higher-grade fertilizers suitable for a wide range of uses, enhancing the efficiency of waste resource use. It eliminates the production of hazardous substances, thereby preventing secondary pollution and minimizing transportation-related pollution that is commonly associated with centralized practices.

Circulating Products: The AVIAYA system utilizes a combination of efficient chemical and enzymatic processes, along with precise control mechanisms, to break down complex organic materials into smaller molecules that benefit the soil. Moreover, the technical material can be remanufactured using local materials to extend their highest value.

Natural Regeneration: By converting waste into a valuable resource that aids in ecological restoration, it enhances crop quality while decreasing chemical dependence, leading to lesser environmental impacts.

Our solution, the Ecocycle system, is designed to address the problem of agricultural waste and unsustainable farming practices by transforming waste into valuable biomass carbon products. Here's a simplified explanation of our theory of change:

Activity: Agricultural Waste Collection** - We collect agricultural waste, such as fruit peels and pomace, which are typically discarded or contribute to environmental pollution. 

Output: Transformation into Bio-Carbon** - Using our proprietary technology, this waste is converted into biomass carbon products, which are high-quality, eco-friendly fertilizers. 

Immediate Outcome: Economic and Environmental Benefits - Farmers gain access to better fertilizers, reducing their reliance on chemical alternatives. This step also provides a sustainable way to manage agricultural waste, contributing to a circular economy. 

Longer-term Outcome: Sustainable Farming Practices - With the use of our bio-carbon products, farmers can improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce the use of harmful chemicals. This leads to a more sustainable approach to farming that is better for the environment and public health. 

Evidence of Impact - Our impact is supported by data from pilot projects where we've observed a reduction in chemical inputs, water conservation, and increased crop yields. For instance, in our collaboration with Citrosuco, we achieved a significant reduction in soil salinity and water usage, along with a notable increase in crop yields. 

Cultural and Market Adaptation - We work closely with local communities to ensure our solution is culturally acceptable and meets the specific needs of the target population. This grassroots approach, backed by continuous feedback loops, strengthens the adoption and effectiveness of our solution. 

Scalability and Partnerships - By establishing partnerships with local governments, NGOs, and agricultural cooperatives, we aim to scale our solution. This collaborative approach allows us to leverage resources, share knowledge, and expand the reach of our system. 

In conclusion, our Ecocycle system is more than just a technological innovation; it's a comprehensive solution that addresses the interlinked challenges of waste management, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation. Our theory of change is built on a foundation of community engagement, scientific innovation, and a commitment to sustainable development, supported by tangible evidence from our pilot projects and collaborations.

Our impact goals for the Ecocycle system are centered around enhancing sustainable agricultural practices, improving soil health, and reducing environmental pollution from agricultural waste. We aim to achieve these goals through the following specific objectives:

1. Sustainable Agriculture Transformation: We strive to transition farming practices towards zero reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Our goal is to have our bio-carbon products adopted by farmers to improve soil quality and crop yields.
2. Waste Reduction: We aim to significantly reduce the amount of agricultural waste that ends up in landfills or is burned, contributing to pollution and climate change.
3. Environmental Conservation: We aim to contribute to the restoration of soil biodiversity and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the use of organic bio-carbon products.

To measure our progress towards these goals, we use a combination of quantitative and qualitative indicators:
Adoption Rate: We track the number of farmers and agricultural operations that adopt our Ecocycle system and bio-carbon products.
Reduction in Chemical Use: We measure the percentage reduction in chemical fertilizer and pesticide use among our clients.
Soil Quality Improvement: We conduct soil tests to quantify improvements in soil health, such as increased organic matter content and nutrient balance.
Crop Yield and Quality: We monitor changes in crop yields and the quality of produce from farms using our system.
Waste Processing Volume: We measure the amount of agricultural waste processed into bio-carbon products.
Environmental Impact: We assess the carbon footprint reduction and the decrease in water usage and soil salinity levels in our pilot projects.
Farmer Satisfaction: We conduct surveys and interviews with farmers to gauge their satisfaction with our products and services.
Economic Impact: We analyze the economic benefits to farmers, such as reduced input costs and increased revenue from higher crop yields and quality.
By setting clear impact goals and using these indicators, we are able to systematically measure and evaluate the effectiveness of our solution in transforming agricultural practices towards sustainability. Our progress is not just about numbers; it's about the tangible improvements in the livelihoods of farmers and the health of our planet.

At the core of our solution is the Ecocycle system, an innovative blend of microbial engineering and enzyme technology that efficiently converts agricultural waste into biomass carbon products. This system is designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring that it can be used by small-scale farmers without extensive technical knowledge.
Our technology is powered by several key components:
- Microbial engineering that leverages specialized bacteria and enzymes to decompose complex organic waste into simpler, usable compounds, accelerating the natural decomposition process.
- A proprietary enzyme formula, developed over two decades of research, which reduces fermentation temperature and time, making the conversion process more efficient.
- Intelligent control systems with smart algorithms that monitor and automatically adjust the fermentation conditions to ensure the highest efficiency of microbial activity.
- A gas-liquid-solid separation process that effectively isolates the components after enzymatic degradation, resulting in a clean, usable product.
- A commitment to circular economy principles, ensuring that even byproducts are utilized, such as using gas for energy and converting liquid and solid parts into fertilizers and soil conditioners.
- A focus on sustainability, with an energy-efficient process that eliminates hazardous byproducts and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with eco-friendly agricultural practices.
The Ecocycle system represents a significant technological advancement, marrying modern biotechnology with natural processes to address the challenge of agricultural waste and provide a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers. 

I am confident in our team's ability to lead the way in sustainable agricultural innovation, creating a healthier environment and more profitable farming practices for the future.

Our technology, the Ecocycle system, especially Ori-Fori software, has been rigorously tested and validated through a series of pilot projects and collaborations with agricultural partners. The evidence of its effectiveness is grounded in the tangible results we've achieved in real-world applications, which serve as a testament to its reliability and impact.

1. Pilot Project Results: We have implemented our system in a 500-acre horticultural site in Shanghai, where we've observed a 32% reduction in chemical inputs, a 40% decrease in labor costs, and a 25% decrease in fertiliser consumption. These results are a direct indication of the system's ability to optimise agricultural practices.
2. Collaborative Outcomes: Our partnership with Citrosuco has resulted in a 5 to 8% improvement in crop yields, a 5% increase in larger fruits, and a 9% rise in fruiting rates. This demonstrates the system's potential to enhance both the quality and quantity of agricultural produce.
3. Environmental Impact: In three months, we've reduced soil salinity by over 35% and decreased water usage by 23% on the farm, showcasing the system's effectiveness in promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
4. Technological Innovation: Our technology leverages advanced microbial engineering and enzyme technology to accelerate the degradation and resource utilisation of organic waste. This innovative approach has been recognised with multiple patents and software copyrights, reflecting its novelty and technical soundness.
5. Academic and Industry Recognition: Our work has been acknowledged with the Shanghai Science and Technology Progress Award, which underscores the scientific merit and practical applicability of our technology.
While we have not published an academic paper specific to the Ecocycle system, the evidence of its effectiveness is reflected in the outcomes of our pilot projects, the environmental impact, and the recognition from both academic and industry experts. We are committed to transparency and are in the process of documenting our findings for broader academic and public discourse. Our technology's success is measured by its ability to transform agricultural waste into valuable resources, thereby promoting a sustainable and efficient agricultural ecosystem.

full-time staff: 7

Our team have been working on the solution for 3 years.

Our team at Ecocycle is a tapestry of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, which is a fundamental strength and a key driver of our innovation. We believe that diversity fuels creativity and fosters a culture of inclusivity and respect. Here's how we ensure our team represents this ethos:

Leadership Diversity: Our leadership team includes individuals from various educational backgrounds, professional experiences, and cultural identities. This diversity at the decision-making level ensures that a wide range of viewpoints are considered, leading to more holistic and effective solutions.
Minimizing Barriers: We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all staff. This includes flexible work arrangements, remote work options, and a focus on meritocracy rather than traditional credentials. We strive to create a level playing field where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.
Inclusive Environment: We foster a culture of respect and support where every team member's contributions are valued. We have open channels of communication that encourage feedback and suggestions, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard.
Equitable Opportunities: We provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to help our team members advance in their careers. We believe in equity, which means we address any disparities and work to eliminate barriers that may prevent full participation.
Action-Oriented Approach: We've taken concrete steps to increase diversity, such as implementing unconscious bias training, offering competitive benefits to attract a wide range of candidates, and establishing a diversity committee to oversee our efforts.
Community Engagement: We engage with the local community and underrepresented groups to source talent, ensuring that our team is a reflection of the communities we serve.
Continuous Improvement: We regularly review our diversity and inclusion practices and set goals to improve. We measure our progress through surveys and feedback to ensure we are living up to our commitment.
At Ecocycle, we believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just buzzwords but are essential to our mission. We are proud of the inclusive and diverse environment we have created, and we will continue to strive for excellence in this area. Our goal is not just to meet industry standards but to set them by creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome, supported, and empowered to contribute to our mission of sustainable agriculture.

Our business model is designed to create sustainable impact by addressing the challenge of agricultural waste while providing value to our key customers and beneficiaries. Here's a snapshot of how we operate:

Customer Segments: Our primary customers are farmers and agricultural businesses looking to enhance soil health, reduce chemical dependencies, and improve crop yields. We also serve environmental agencies and sustainability-focused organizations that value eco-friendly solutions.

Value Proposition: We offer the Ecocycle system, a technology that converts agricultural waste into high-quality biomass carbon products used as organic fertilizers. These products improve soil fertility, leading to better crop yields and quality, while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Channels: We reach our customers through direct sales, partnerships with agricultural cooperatives, and collaborations with environmental organizations. Our online platform also allows customers to access our services and products conveniently.
Customer Relationships: We build strong, collaborative relationships with our customers, offering technical support and personalized service to ensure they derive maximum benefit from our solutions.

Revenue Streams: Our revenue comes from the sale of the Ecocycle system, the biomass carbon products, and the provision of related services such as soil analysis and personalized fertilization plans. We also generate income from licensing our technology and patents.

Key Resources: Our key resources include our proprietary technology, skilled team, manufacturing capabilities, and intellectual property. We also leverage partnerships with research institutions and collaborations with local farming communities.
Key Activities: Core activities involve research and development, manufacturing, marketing, sales, and providing customer support. We also engage in continuous improvement of our technology and services.
Key Partners: We collaborate with agricultural extension services, environmental NGOs, and technology providers. These partnerships help us enhance our services and reach a wider audience.
Cost Structure: Our main costs include research and development, production, marketing, personnel, and operational expenses. We also invest in technology upgrades and training to maintain our competitive edge.

By integrating modern technology with sustainable practices, our business model not only generates revenue but also promotes a healthier environment and supports the economic viability of farming communities. We are committed to a model that benefits both people and the planet, driving innovation to solve global challenges.

Our plan for financial sustainability is multifaceted, combining the sale of products and services, strategic partnerships, and targeted investment capital. Here's an outline of our approach and the evidence of its success so far:
1. Product and Service Sales: We generate revenue by selling the Ecocycle system and the biomass carbon products produced. Our sales strategy includes direct transactions with agricultural operations and leasing options to reduce barriers for new producers. We have successfully generated $66,559.85 in revenue this year, indicating market acceptance and financial potential.
2. Strategic Partnerships: We collaborate with industry leaders, research institutions, and local governments to access resources, share knowledge, and expand our market reach. These partnerships contribute to our financial stability by reducing operational costs and increasing market penetration.
3. Investment Capital: We have secured investment capital through a combination of grants and private funding. For instance, we have received a public welfare fund support of 1.8 million yuan (approximately $272,000) to build our "zero waste" standardized production line, demonstrating external validation of our business model.
4. Cost-Effective Operations: We maintain financial sustainability by optimizing our operations. Our technology reduces production costs by lowering energy consumption and resource wastage, allowing us to offer competitive pricing and higher profit margins.
5. Revenue Projections: We project a positive net cash flow by 2025 and aim for profitability by 2026, based on our current growth trajectory and market expansion plans.
6. Grants and Awards: We have been recognized with awards such as the Shanghai Science and Technology Progress Award, which not only provides financial support but also enhances our credibility and opens doors to additional funding opportunities.
7. Market Expansion: Our expansion strategy includes entering new markets with our proven technology. We have successfully launched three factories with a daily processing capacity of 35 tons of waste, and we are on track to expand further, which will increase our revenue streams.
In summary, our financial sustainability is built on a solid foundation of product sales, strategic partnerships, investment capital, and operational efficiency. The success of our funding efforts, combined with our revenue generation and cost management, provides evidence that our plan is viable and positioned for long-term success.