DESPRAY Environmental, a global leader in aerosol recycling, has signed a partnership with Nigeria-based FREEE Recycle Limited to launch Food Fuel, an initiative that converts recovered aerosol gases into affordable, clean cooking fuel.

The agreement, formalized at DESPRAY’s headquarters in the Netherlands, brings together DESPRAY CEO Eelco Osse and FREEE Recycle founder Ifedolapo Runsewe, alongside officials from both countries.

Food Fuel was first envisioned in 2018 by DESPRAY Co-founder Mike MacKay, who sought a sustainable alternative to harmful traditional fuels widely used across Africa. The project will deploy DESPRAY’s DS5000 system in Ibadan, Nigeria, capable of processing 10 million aerosol cans annually and producing up to 200,000 liters of purified gas—enough to supply thousands of households.

The initiative addresses a critical public health issue: household air pollution from polluting fuels kills 700,000 people annually in Africa, according to the World Health Organization. By repurposing waste propellants like propane and butane, the project aims to reduce both emissions and deforestation while creating jobs in recycling and fuel distribution.

The pilot is set to launch in 2027, with plans to expand across Africa. DESPRAY and FREEE Recycle are inviting governments, NGOs, and investors to support the rollout.