Kulu Eco-Services is an environmental startup from Stellenbosch, South Africa, originally founded with the goal of processing fats, oils, and grease (FOG) in urban drainage systems—an issue common but often overlooked in many cities. From this initial focus, Kulu Eco-Services has gradually expanded its vision and developed into an innovative model that transforms waste into renewable energy and biofuels through decentralized processing centers.
The unique aspect of their model is its on-site deployment capability. Through compact centers, this startup enables waste sorting and processing directly at the source, including plastic waste, organic matter, and oils. From these inputs, Kulu’s technology can produce biogas, biofuels, or organic fertilizers, while ensuring compliance with strict regulations banning the landfilling of organic waste and liquid waste in many African countries.
Kulu not only provides an effective technological solution for waste treatment but also builds a feasible and scalable circular economy model. With its compact nature, low cost, and adaptability to both urban and rural settings, this startup has enabled local communities to access clean energy, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable development.
To date, Kulu Eco-Services is gradually expanding its model across various regions in Africa, from large cities to remote areas, aiming to become a pioneer in zero waste solutions. The model also creates local employment opportunities, encouraging communities to engage in the recycling value chain and the use of renewable energy, thereby generating positive and sustainable economic impacts.
At the 2025 P4G Vietnam Summit, Kulu Eco-Services received support from the National Startup Support Center (NSSC) in organizing a booth to showcase its waste-to-renewable energy and biofuel conversion model through decentralized treatment centers. This is a key opportunity for Kulu Eco-Services to connect with investors, international partners, and organizations in the environmental sector, aiming to expand its model beyond Africa and apply zero-waste solutions to more countries. The partnership with NSSC has helped the company introduce its green technology, creating global collaboration opportunities and promoting sustainable development in the waste management and renewable energy fields.
With its strong expansion potential, clear environmental benefits, and flexible application, Kulu Eco-Services is a prime example of how a small-scale startup can make a significant impact, contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals in Africa and beyond.
