Zubenathi Charcoal & Firewood Project

Project Outline

This project aims to create a sustainable and economically viable enterprise producing charcoal and firewood using invasive plant species, primarily black wattle.

Zubenathi ventured into Charcoal Manufacturing as a value added initiative in contract with the Department of Environmental Affairs (Natural Resource Management Programme) targeting alien and invasive plants, thereby (1) tackling the problem of invasive species, (2) creating employment and (3) creating an economically viable enterprise.

Why Black Wattle? – It’s environmental impacts

Black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) is one of the most widespread and significant invasive alien trees in South Africa, and great concern is frequently expressed over its potential effect on reducing catchment water yields. The species often forms dense stands, maintains a high green leaf area throughout the year, and frequently replaces seasonally dormant grasslands and fynbos. It is widely accepted that removal of such stands of trees in these circumstances leads to improved catchment water yields. (with the current water crisis the harvesting and the treatment of black wattle to produce charcoal is a good alternative.

Why Black Wattle? – Why it makes great charcoal

The harder the wood the better the charcoal. That is why black wattle makes world class charcoal.
Our charcoal is all-natural no chemical, other charcoal contains fillers and binding agents and toxins which are unhealthy and ruins the taste of your meal.
Our charcoal has a high burning temperature and a long-lasting burn, it burns longer then briquettes and is smoke free. It also catches fire quickly.

Product List and Recommended Sales Price

Charcoal
Direct distribution R55.00
Wholesale R35.00

Black wattle (fire wood)
Large black wattle bag – direct R50.00
Large black wattle bag – Wholesale R30.00

Torn wood (fire-wood)
Large torn wood bag – direct R50.00
Large torn wood bag – Wholesale R30.00