Firewood continues to be the major source of cooking fuel in many African homes. Although using firewood is a conventional and accessible option, the negative effects it has on the environment and human health are become more concerning. Communities are looking for cleaner and more cost-effective alternatives as a result of deforestation, indoor air pollution, and the growing price of wood. This article examines creative ways to save money, save the environment, and change lives.
The Problem with Firewood
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Africa loses an estimated 4 million hectares of forest annually due to deforestation (FAO, 2021). Most of this is tied to firewood collection. Additionally, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), exposure to smoke from traditional cooking methods causes respiratory diseases, contributing to nearly 4 million premature deaths annually worldwide (WHO, 2020).
In addition to the negative effects on health and the environment, women and children are frequently burdened with the task of collecting firewood, which takes up hours of their time that could be better used for community development, economic activity, or education.
Bio-friendly and Less Expensive Substitutes
1. Briquettes and Pellets
Briquettes made from agricultural waste, such as maize stalks, coffee husks, and sawdust, provide an eco-friendly alternative to firewood. These compact blocks are affordable, produce less smoke, and burn longer than traditional wood.
- Example: Green Bio Energy in Uganda has successfully introduced briquettes to local communities, reducing dependence on firewood and creating employment (Green Bio Energy). Also in Nigeria, Abacha Stove as we call, the local sawdust cooker has also been a better alternative to firewood.
2. Biogas
Biogas is generated by decomposing organic waste in a controlled environment. This renewable energy source is not only clean but also helps manage waste efficiently. Small-scale biogas digesters are becoming popular in rural areas across Africa.
- Example: African Biogas Partnership Programme (ABPP) has installed thousands of biogas digesters in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia (ABPP).
3. Solar Cookers
Harnessing the power of the sun, solar cookers are a zero-emission solution for cooking. They are particularly effective in regions with high solar radiation.
- Example: Solar Cookers International promotes the adoption of solar cooking technologies in sunny parts of Africa (Solar Cookers International).
4. Improved Cookstoves
Improved cookstoves use less fuel, produce less smoke, and cook food more efficiently than traditional three-stone stoves. Many organizations are working to make these stoves accessible to low-income households.
- Example: The Clean Cooking Alliance supports projects that distribute improved cookstoves across Africa (Clean Cooking Alliance).
5. LPG and Ethanol Stoves
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and ethanol stoves offer modern, clean alternatives to firewood. While the initial cost may be higher, they provide long-term savings and are less harmful to health and the environment.
- Example: KOKO Networks in Kenya supplies ethanol fuel and affordable stoves to urban households (KOKO Networks).
Why These Alternatives Matter
The following are numerous advantages to using cleaner cooking solutions:
- Environmental Protection: Reduces deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Health Improvement: Minimizes indoor air pollution and related respiratory diseases.
- Economic Savings: Alternatives like briquettes and solar cookers lower fuel costs over time.
- Empowerment: Frees up time for women and children, fostering education and economic participation.
What to do
To scale these solutions, governments, non-profits, and private organisations must work together. Cleaner cooking technologies can be made available to more households through microfinance options, awareness campaigns, and subsidies.
Credits
This article draws insights from the following sources:
- Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO): www.fao.org
- World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int
- Green Bio Energy: www.greenbioenergy.org
- African Biogas Partnership Programme (ABPP): www.africabiogas.org
- Solar Cookers International: www.solarcookers.org
- Clean Cooking Alliance: www.cleancookingalliance.org
- KOKO Networks: www.kokonetworks.com
By embracing these alternatives, Africa can move towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. It’s time to ignite change and extinguish the reliance on firewood.