These Hands Founder, Thabiso Mashaba, helped set up the Slash for Cash project. Slash for Cash built a mobile carbonization kiln that converts slash and other woody waste material into biochar and smokeless barbeque briquettes. This process converts slash, which is ordinarily a nuisance, into a revenue source while also sequestering carbon and improving soil health. Slash for Cash expects to remove 4,320 metric tonnes of slash and produce 720 metric tonnes of biochar by the end of 2026. This project has also provided job training to eighteen unemployed community members.
In recognition of its work, New Zealand’s Sustainable Business Network has awarded the 2025 Transformational Leadership Award to Slash for Cash. Slash for Cash is grateful for the award and looks forward to expanding its impact on local communities in New Zealand and beyond.