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Hongera Energy Efficient
Cookstoves Project, Kenya

The Hongera Energy Efficient Cookstoves Project manufactures and distributes energy-efficient cookstoves to local communities in Kenya, reducing firewood usage, restoring nature, and minimising indoor air pollution.

 
 

Project general info

Location
kenya MT Kenya and Aberdares, Kenya
Project goal
The project aims to provide a more efficient cooking method that reduces the amount of firewood needed for cooking, therefore decreasing deforestation and restoring nature.
Team members
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Haron Wachira
Project Director Kenya

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James Wachieni
Field Operations Director Kenya

Project description

The Hongera Energy Efficient Cookstoves Project locally manufactures and distributes energy-efficient cookstoves to local communities in Kenya. These cookstoves provide a more efficient cooking method that reduces the amount of firewood needed, thus restoring nature and reducing pressure on local forests as well as reducing indoor air pollution.

Project ID

GOLD STANDARD ID: GS 12033

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Impact on local communities

The project has a powerful impact on the local community. The negative health impacts of cooking with wood or charcoal (as well as fuels such as kerosine) are felt by millions globally. Household air pollution from these practices results in a premature mortality rate of an estimated four million people annually. Using energy-efficient cookstoves improves indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory diseases and other health problems associated with traditional cooking methods. It also saves time and disposable income for local communities (especially the female population), as they no longer have to spend as much time and resources gathering firewood. The stoves are locally made, offering many job opportunities and ensuring they suit the local communities’ needs.

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Positive environmental impact

The project further has a positive impact on the environment. The stoves are energy-efficient, which reduces the amount of firewood needed for cooking and thus reduces the pressure on local forests. This reduction in firewood use can effectively reduce deforestation, making reforestation projects more effective.

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Project timeline

The feasibility study was finalised in Q3 2021, after which the project commenced. The first cookstoves were manufactured in 2022 and distributed in 2023. In May 2024, the project received Gold Standard validation. The cookstoves' lifespan is estimated to last approximately 7.5 years, with plans to renew or replace them after 7 years. Regular repairs and maintenance will also be performed throughout the project's duration. 

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The Hongera Energy Efficient Cookstoves Project pipeline

  • New projects
  • Feasibility study
  • Project design
  • Project validation
  • Project implementation
  • Periodic verification
  • Project completion

The project's impact

The Hongera Energy Efficient Cookstoves Project plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable practices and fostering environmental stewardship. By locally manufacturing and distributing energy-efficient cookstoves, we are not only addressing the immediate need for efficient cooking methods but also contributing to broader ecological goals. The project aims to restore the balance in nature by curbing deforestation, preserving local forests, and mitigating the impact of indoor air pollution on the health of community members.

Moreover, our commitment extends beyond the environmental aspect. We recognise the interconnectedness of community wellbeing and ecological health. In collaboration with local partners, we are actively involved in community development initiatives that empower residents and create a lasting positive impact. Through education and skill-building programmes, we strive to enhance the quality of life for individuals and families, ensuring a holistic and sustainable approach to progress.

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Gold Standard Carbon offset products
150,000 energy efficient cookstoves
2.5M tonnes CO₂
150,000 households positively impacted

Where the project is located

kenya Kenya MT Kenya and Aberdares, Kenya

About this region

The project is being developed in Kenya in multiple sites across Mt Kenya and the Aberdare regions. Kenyan forests, in particular, are especially rich in plant and animal life, and most of the country’s endemic species live in forest habitats. Since the 1970s, much of the forest landscape that previously covered many of these areas has been fragmented or degraded by deforestation and desertification. This makes the conservation and restoration of forests (and, in turn, the ecosystem services they provide) a priority for this region.

Hongera Energy Efficient Cookstoves Project diaries

Read and learn about the latest updates from the local management team.

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What we will achieve with this project

2.5M

tonnes CO₂ to be captured

150,000

cookstoves being distributed

150,000

households positively impacted

Find out more in the project booklet

Join us to witness the incredible transformation as we breathe new life into once barren lands. Together, we can make a lasting impact and leave a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations.

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Project investment process

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Assess your environmental footprint

The first step is to measure and understand the impact of your business and commit to environmental responsibility. By doing so, businesses benefit the planet and gain a competitive edge. We prioritise nature restoration, offering businesses a path to a greener future. With our carbon footprint calculator, you can get clarity on your business’ environmental impact.

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Invest in environmental solutions

Once you've measured your impact, the next step is to offset your carbon footprint and develop strategies that leverage nature-based solutions. Carbon offsetting is about investing in positive environmental impact. Our nature-based approach ensures you contribute to tangible, nature-positive outcomes that align with your values and vision, contributing to a more sustainable world.

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Report on your nature-positive impact

After you have offset your carbon footprint, you can celebrate being nature positive. You can communicate your positive impact to stakeholders. DGB can help you with your ESG reporting as well as corporate communication strategies. This isn't just about accountability and transparency; it's an opportunity to inspire others and showcase the tangible benefits of investing in nature conservation.

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement

Article 6 of the Paris Agreement primarily establishes a governance mechanism with transparent registries for bilateral carbon credit transfers between countries that further facilitates a high-quality global carbon credit trading system. Kenya has recently enacted a new Climate Change Act, laying the foundation for its participation in international carbon markets. This updated act is seen as a vital step for Kenya's engagement in activities under Article 6. Our project will align with Article 6’s implementation for Kenya.


How can we help you?

At the core of our mission lies the preservation of nature and the fostering of biodiversity. DGB Group is actively working to restore nature. Join us in creating a greener future through impactful nature-based projects. Reach out to us to learn more about our work.