Many poor people in the southernmost province of Ca Mau burn forests to obtain charcoal, running the gauntlet of years in jail and even shooting by rangers. “We know we are burning our own homes, but what else can we do to feed ourselves?”
Energy Poverty
NEWS: Charcoal is Uganda’s “black gold.”
“The charcoal trade, referred to as “black gold” by Kampala traders, has become more profitable than the forests where trees are being indiscriminately cut down for charcoal-burning.”
TCP + MIT = Harvesting Waste for Energy & Poverty Alleviation
Let’s just say that after almost 40 months since The Charcoal Project paddled out sea, the big waves are finally starting to form on the horizon.
The Harvest Fuel Initiative is the name of the first very big wave we plan to surf this year.
NEWS: What’s good for the panda is good for the cookstove
There is evidence that bamboo charcoal burns cleaner than wood charcoal and with comparable heating and energy values. Charcoal production is another way for families to diversify their livelihoods and earn some additional income, and the relatively limited investments required for the simple charcoal-making process make it an income source that is accessible to many.
NEWS: Fuel briquettes from groundnut shells
(Via HEDON) “In Gambia, Anthony Tabbal has established a business making fuel briquettes from groundnut shells. He was inspired to do this by his concern over deforestation in the country, with many trees being felled for firewood and charcoal making.”