Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
In developing countries, smallholder farmers and market vendors face significant post-harvest losses due to lack of access to reliable and affordable cold storage, leading to food spoilage and reduced income. Inefficient cold chains contribute to as much as 36% of total food harvest losses in Sub-Saharan Africa. The reliance on diesel generators for cooling also exacerbates environmental issues.
Solution
GreenBox provides solar-powered walk-in cool rooms designed to mitigate post-harvest losses and enhance the value of agricultural produce. These off-grid, mobile cold storage units utilize solar energy to preserve perishable crops, extending their shelf life from 2 days to up to 21 days. GreenBox offers these units as a service, allowing farmers to rent storage space on a daily or weekly basis, eliminating the need for upfront capital investment or specialized maintenance expertise. By providing affordable and accessible cooling solutions, GreenBox empowers smallholder farmers to increase their income, reduce food waste, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Target Audience
GreenBox targets smallholder farmers, agricultural cooperatives, and market vendors in developing countries who need affordable and reliable cold storage solutions to reduce post-harvest losses and increase their income.
Features
- Stand-alone, mobile cold storage units powered by solar energy
- Temperature and humidity control for optimal preservation of various crops
- Remote monitoring via mobile app for real-time data on storage conditions
- Modular design for easy installation and relocation
- Pay-as-you-go service model with daily or weekly rental options
- Community-based storage units, eliminating individual farmer investment
- Reduction of CO2 emissions by eliminating the need for diesel generators