ReLeaf is a cooperative owned by worker members and participating businesses, committed to transforming waste into eco-friendly solutions.
How It Works
ReLeaf transforms business waste into lush vertical gardens, reducing disposal costs while promoting environmental sustainability. With our unique QR code tracking, businesses benefit from full transparency, from waste harvesting to installation and maintenance of the gardens.
The Problem
Austin businesses generate substantial amounts of waste, often expensive to dispose of and not always in an eco-friendly way. ReLeaf addresses this issue by repurposing waste into a resource, beautifying urban spaces while reducing environmental impact.
Validation & Traction
We have engaged in discussions with local businesses that produce suitable waste materials for our project. These conversations show clear interest in our innovative approach. Additionally, we have submitted an entry to the Austin Circular Economy Showcase and begun prototyping planter modules.
Competition
Our competition includes conventional waste haulers, selective waste harvesting companies, and Austin Resource Recovery. However, we aim to collaborate rather than compete, fostering a greener waste management ecosystem.
Our Solution
ReLeaf offers a groundbreaking solution by converting waste into vertical gardens. This not only saves businesses money on disposal but also promotes sustainability and enhances the beauty of urban spaces.
Why Now
With rising awareness around environmental sustainability and waste management, now is the perfect time for a solution like ReLeaf. Our cooperative model addresses these challenges in a way that is both innovative and collaborative.
Go-To-Market Strategy
We plan to partner with businesses that generate the right kinds of waste, offering them reduced disposal costs and the potential for shared profits. Our outreach includes participation in local eco-initiatives, online promotions, and community events.
Market Size
Our initial focus is on Austin-based businesses. Once we refine our model and demonstrate success, we aim to expand to other cities, potentially scaling to a national or global level.
Projections
In our early stages, we anticipate that expenses will exceed revenues. However, we expect to reach profitability by year three, as we scale our operations and grow our cooperative community.
How This Grows
We envision ReLeaf becoming a standard for sustainable waste management in Austin and beyond. Our long-term vision includes expanding to new locations and diversifying our services, all while staying true to our mission of eco-innovation and cooperative ownership.
Ownership & Governance
ReLeaf is democratically owned by its worker members and participating businesses. Every member has an equal voice in decisions regarding the cooperative’s direction and operations.