Project course
The construction of the COMPacity demonstration plant in the Buffalo City metropolitan area serves as a flagship project for a low-emission and resource-efficient circular economy in the Eastern Cape region.
- Through the practical testing of innovative composting methods at the KuGompo City site, as well as the accompanying modules “Business Model Development,” “Training,” and “Mentoring,” local expertise is strengthened, regional stakeholders are connected, and the conditions are created for transferring successful approaches to other municipalities, companies, and agricultural operations.
- By adapting the results of the “Digi-Kompost” research project to the regional conditions of the Eastern Cape, components of a decentralized IoT sensor system for AI-supported monitoring and control of organic and green waste composting facilities will be implemented. This is intended to optimize composting processes and reduce process-related methane and other greenhouse gas emissions.
Work packages
WP 1: Project Coordination and Management
Establishing the organizational and administrative framework, coordinating collaboration among project partners, and monitoring project progress based on defined goals and indicators. Regular coordination meetings, risk management, and public relations activities to ensure the structured implementation of the project.
WP 2: Development of a Low-Emission Composting Process
Analysis of the technical, legal, and organizational framework, as well as selection of a suitable location for the demonstration plant. Planning of the plant and development of operational concepts and process flows to ensure efficient, low-emission, and quality-assured composting.
WP 3: Business Models and Market Integration
Analysis of regional market potential, demand, and economic conditions to develop viable operational and business models for composting and substrate production. Development of marketing strategies, concepts for creating permanent jobs, and approaches for scaling up to other regions.
WP 4: Construction and Operation of a Demonstration Plant
Construction and commissioning of a production and demonstration plant for the recycling of organic waste and the production of high-quality substrates in Buffalo City. Monitoring and optimization of the composting and production processes with regard to emission reduction, process efficiency, and product quality. Use of digital sensor technologies, as well as the development and testing of two substrate formulations tailored to specific needs.
AP 5: Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building
Development and implementation of target-group-specific training and continuing education programs on composting, the circular economy, quality assurance, and climate-resilient agriculture. Training of 40 instructors, education of students, and implementation of a mentoring program for 100 smallholder farms. Establishment of a digital learning platform and institutional integration of educational programs to ensure the long-term sustainability of knowledge transfer.
AP 6: Networking and Dissemination of Results
Establishment of regional and supraregional networks, as well as promotion of the exchange of knowledge and experience among municipalities, businesses, educational institutions, and agricultural stakeholders. Dissemination of project results through specialized events, digital exchange formats, and scientific publications. Development of a practice-oriented best-practice and implementation guide for transferring low-emission composting methods and circular business models to other municipalities and regions.
Project components
The individual project components are interlinked and form the foundation for the successful implementation of COMPacity- from the planning and construction of the demonstration facility, through the development of viable business models and training programs, to knowledge transfer and the long-term establishment of a low-emission circular economy in the Eastern Cape region.
