Our Team
Dr. Deniz Uçar
Dr. Deniz Uçar is an Environmental Engineer and an Associate Professor at Bursa Technical University. His recent publications include “Increasing biomethane production from paper industry wastewater with optimum trace element supplementation.”
Dr. Uçar received his PhD degree from Istanbul Technical University in 2016. He focuses on biological processes in water and wastewater treatment, and teaches Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Chemistry, and Membrane Bioprocesses at Bursa Technical
University.
Dr. Ozan Bekmezci
Dr. Ozan Bekmezci is a Biologist with a PhD in Environmental Engineering and currently working as an Assistant Professor at Bitlis Eren University. He works on environmental biotechnologies with specialization on anaerobic waste removal/recovery including biogas production (i.e. anaerobic digestion).
Rozenn Richardeau
Rozenn Richardeau is a seasoned professional with experience in international development, focusing on environmental sustainability and community engagement. She holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Management from Université Paris-Sorbonne. Throughout her career, Rozenn has collaborated with various NGOs and governmental organizations across Francophone countries, implementing waste reduction initiatives and promoting circular economy practices. As the Expansion and Outreach Coordinator for French-speaking countries at Waste Free ’23, she leverages her extensive network and expertise to foster partnerships and drive impactful environmental programs.
Dr. Jasmin K. A.
Dr. Jasmin K. A. is the Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of PhyEcoSyS Pvt. Ltd., based in Cochin, Kerala, India. She holds a PhD in Marine Sciences with specialization in microalgal biotechnology.
With over 13 years of multidisciplinary experience across academic research, industrial innovation, and community education, Dr. Jasmin works on microalgal wastewater treatment, bioremediation, algae-based bioenergy, carbon sequestration, aquatic ecosystem restoration, and circular bioeconomy strategies.
As a Scientific Consultant and Microalgae Expert for Waste Free ’23, she leads initiatives on clean water solutions using algae and biochar in multiple countries, contributing to sustainable wastewater management and climate action efforts.
Cicilia Kinanu Paul
Cicilia Kinanu Paul works with Waste Free ’23 in Nakuru County, Kenya, where she manages the Naivasha Recovery Center. Her work focuses on biochar production, black soldier fly systems, composting, and plastic panel manufacturing.
She studied at Osons Computer College and later joined the environmental sector, where she developed hands-on expertise in community waste recovery and circular economy practices. At Waste Free ’23, Cicilia oversees daily operations at the recovery center and supports the implementation of integrated waste-to-resource systems that generate environmental and economic value.
Sidur Rahman
Sidur Rahman is a Materials Scientist and Engineer, currently pursuing his bachelor’s at Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh. Passionate about tackling waste, he began with designing a solar-powered heat press for recycling, empowering communities without electricity.
Sidur also manages website development, community engagement, and media marketing for Waste Free ’23. Inspired by the NGO’s innovative and safe waste elimination processes, he is dedicated to creating stable living wage jobs and a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Sylvester S. Lutchman
Sylvester S. Lutchman is a freelance Mechanical Engineer with a BSc of Eng from the University of West Indies. Creator of the shack power system. As someone with a passion for solving interesting problems with novel or retrofitted ideas, bringing solutions to cheap affordable power generation and storage was a welcome challenge.
Sylvester also works as lead engineer for multiple shack projects across the globe for small communities and as a consultant for industries looking to adopt the prinicpals of biochar generation, waste heat capture power, thermal energy storage, capturing and processing waste gases and power generation .
Habtamu Elias Ololo
Habtamu Elias Ololo is the Sidama Regional State Coordinator for Waste Free ’23 in Ethiopia. He holds a BA in Sociology and an MBA in Human Resource Management. Habtamu leads regional operations, coordinating teams, organizing social demonstrations, and implementing Waste Free ’23’s vision at the community level. His work focuses on producing, demonstrating, and distributing biochar to local households while training community members to convert waste into valuable products and income-generating opportunities. He is committed to eliminating waste through practical, community-based solutions that create livelihoods and promote sustainable resource use.