With existing landfills almost at capacity and space for refuse disposal running short, South Africa’s waste crisis is a growing epidemic. This is where digital solutions company Kudoti steps in. The niche start up uses cutting-edge data science and digital tools to help waste management and recycling companies optimise their operations, making them more efficient and cost-effective.
In essence, Kudoti aims to improve the data-collection mechanisms in these organisations. They do this by deploying IoT sensors for companies to monitor their waste stream flows in real-time, as well as implementing cloud-based software for companies to better gather logistics and operations statistics, among other solutions. The software provides waste companies with real-time information on where the waste is located and from which area it needs to be collected, ensuring that companies only service the areas that need it most, driving down costs and logistics.
Through better waste management, Kudoti contributes to a more sustainable circular economy and society.
According to Kudoti founder Gift Lubele: “Today, a lot of recyclable waste is not recycled because waste management systems do not have the capacity to accurately plan the flow of waste and maximise the recycling potential. They can’t even begin to think about planning in advance for recyclable waste to be better sorted, treated and sold.
‘‘Data analysis, trends and detailed analysis can be used to identify bottlenecks in the supply chain while also allowing more accurate forecasts and a more proactive approach to waste management.”
In addition, Kudoti seeks to not only service urban areas but also informal regions. “The informal waste sector processes around 80% of all recyclable waste in South Africa and therefore serves a key role in improving waste and recycling
practices. Our focus is to help individual buyback centres operate more efficiently and have access to innovative digital tools. ‘
“Kudoti also leverages data from these buyback centres to improve the overall management of waste nationally.”