Environment Watch Africa: Pioneering Innovation in Community-Powered Conservation

19 March 2024

Environment Watch Africa (EWA) is a social enterprise that has been building partnerships

with rural and indigenous communities in urban and rural Uganda since its inception. EWA’s

mission is to help these communities identify, evaluate, and prioritize their conservation and

natural resource needs, empowering them to restore and conserve the tropical ecosystems

where they live and on which they rely for basic necessities and well-being.

EWA’s community-powered conservation projects are a testament to the power of

innovation and sustainability in action. By working closely with local communities, EWA is

able to identify the most pressing environmental challenges and develop tailored solutions

that are both effective and equitable.

One of EWA’s most innovative initiatives is its waste-to-protein program, which uses insect

larvae to process organic waste into sustainable agricultural inputs. By feeding organic

waste to Black Soldier Fly larvae, EWA is able to harvest protein and oil-rich larvae after a

rearing period of just ten days. These larvae are then dried and processed, yielding a

protein-packed meal that is rich in omega fatty acids and minerals.

EWA’s holistic approach to conservation and sustainability is grounded in a deep

understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic factors. By

empowering communities to take ownership of their natural resources, EWA is fostering a

culture of environmental stewardship and promoting sustainable development practices that

benefit both people and the planet.

As EWA continues to innovate and expand its reach, it serves as a beacon of hope for

communities across Uganda and beyond. By demonstrating the power of community-driven

conservation and waste-to-protein technologies, EWA is paving the way for a more

sustainable and equitable future for all.

#RecognizingInnovation #HappyBrands