Xi Bassile

We are a Mozambican social startup aiming to provide the design, construction and maintenance of nature-based solutions for urban infrastructure, with a focus on an innovative sustainable drainage system. Bioswales are a nature-based solution that uses vegetation and soil to not only drain but also to absorb and filtrate stormwater. Based on precedent studies from the University of Cape Town and the University of Brasilia, we developed a new bioswale typology that repurposes waste as constructive elements to increase water absorption and temporary storage capacity, tackling stormwater and waste management simultaneously. Mission We aim to tackle urban and environmental problems in a sustainable way and with a systemic approach, contributing to safer, healthier, more inclusive and resilient cities (SDG11), ensuring water's inclusive and sustainable management (ODS6), promoting climate change mitigation and adaptation (SDG13) and supporting biodiversity (SDG15). Values We perceive the world and its challenges through the ecocentric and social ecology lenses, regarding humanity as being a part of nature (not something apart or superior to it) and understanding that the current social and environmental crises require rethinking human systems and interactions. Our actions are guided by the principles of integrity, equality, social justice, respect and innovation. Vision Our goal is to become a key agent in innovating practices and policies regarding urban infrastructure in Mozambique, contributing to a scenario where water management is sustainable and enables multiple benefits to people, places and nature.