These cool boxes are cutting food waste in east Africa

They’re affordable, lightweight and highly efficient and can be used in areas with no access to electricity. RADiCool boxes can keep fish fresh for up to 48 hours. They contain panels made from advanced ‘phase change materials’ (PCMs). PCMs store and release heat by changing from liquid to solid and back again.

Affordable, efficient, and electricity-free, RADiCool cool boxes are making a difference in East Africa by helping reduce food waste. Designed with phase change materials (PCMs), these boxes keep fish fresh for up to 48 hours by absorbing heat as they melt, similar to how ice cools a drink.

How RADiCool works in tough conditions

The boxes are frozen in solar-powered hubs and equipped with IoT sensors and GPS to monitor temperature and location. Their compact design allows them to fit on motorcycles, the most common mode of transport for traders in Uganda.

Fighting food waste in Uganda’s fish trade

Developed by Aston University and RAD Global, the RADiCool system addresses the high spoilage rate in Uganda’s fish trade. With 42% of traders reporting losses due to heat, these cool boxes provide a practical solution to improve food security and support livelihoods.

A step towards sustainable food systems

The World Economic Forum supports innovations like RADiCool through its Food Innovation Hubs. These hubs work to create food systems that are more resilient, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable.

Watch the video to see how these cool boxes are helping transform food storage and transport across East Africa.