iCink

Decarbonising the construction industry

iCink is redefining the construction industry by converting waste into high-performance, low-carbon building materials.

Our innovative solutions significantly reduce the reliance on clinker in cement production, cutting CO2 emissions and supporting sustainable urbanisation.

OUR VISION

With Africa set to host the world’s largest cities by 2100, the demand for construction materials is rising. Concrete production already emits 0.9 tons of CO2 per ton of cement, posing a significant climate challenge. iCink tackles this by repurposing waste into low-carbon alternatives, ensuring Africa’s growth is sustainable and climate-resilient.

WHY IT MATTERS

iCink transforms mining waste into sustainable building materials to decarbonise one of the world’s most carbon-intensive industries. By reducing the clinker required in cement production, iCink provides a scalable solution for greener construction.

Focus Areas

Urbanisation: Infrastructure & Resilience

Materials: Low Carbon Manufacturing, Concrete & Construction

Minerals: Circularity, Mineralisation & Biodiversity Enhancement

Meet the iCink Team

Emma Horn
Co Founder

Emma is Chemical engineer and Falling Walls Winner of 2022. She is currently concluding her PhD in Chemical Engineering which is focused on growing stronger bio-materials using bacteria, improving the energy efficiency of construction, valorising waste and stimulating circular economies. She is passionate about finding interventions that will make a positive impact at scale.

Mufaro Mapfumo
Co Founder

Mufaro is a civil engineer, innovator and entrepreneur. Her dedication to building sustainable and resilient African cities is evident in her work, focusing on urbanisation, sustainable construction, and resilience. With hands-on experience in infrastructure projects, such as the SANRAL R37 Burgersfort Road Upgrade, Mufaro has actively contributed to addressing urban challenges in Africa.