Help a Kiwi project transform waste into energy in Samoa

With your help a Kiwi project will transform waste into energy and change lives in a Samoan village.

NZ-based organization BioEnceptionz are running a crowdfunding campaign to expand a successful biogas project in Piu Village, Samoa! These systems tackle two problems (the unaffordability of power and an infestation of an invasive vine) at once, turning the green waste into biogas for clean, modern cooking options and free lighting.

This campaign - at https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/1491 - aims to raise money to build and install these six new household systems.

Those who donate are able to collect some great rewards (including original art prints and gifts from Samoa) as well as follow the progress through a continuing series of video diaries. "We want everyone who gives to feel they're a real part of this project as we move forward", says the project's Social Media Manager.

Piu Village is a typical village community in Samoa of approximately 40 residents. They farm taro and are kind, generous people who are unfortunately unable to move beyond using open-fire cooking due to the un-affordability of power in Samoa. "Our mothers have grown up always with the smoke and fire, smoke in their eyes, in their clothing." says Italia Leau, wife of the village pastor.

The biodigester systems break down any green waste - including the invasive vine - into liquid fertilizer (for crops) and biogas. Using new biogas appliances this will give the mothers of Piu new, clean adjustable gas stoves and free lighting.

Biodigesters are a new technology for Samoa, and with enough donations this project could set a precedent for a new way to think about energy in Pacific Island communities.

"If enough people give our project a little bit, and share it with others, we can permanently change life for the better in Piu Village. Together we can create a brighter, greener future." - Matt Ward, BioEnceptionz

The crowdfunding drive runs until 28/10/13 at https://www.pledgeme.co.nz/1491

ENDS

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