· As global study says 3.2m persons die yearly from household smoke
· High-tech expert, Clinton Dandison, puts forward an option
By Ignatius Chukwu
Grace Alawa is a university lecturer in Port Harcourt but her passion seems to be on environment and nature. On this occasion, her NGO steers a study and carried out rural-based activities to find solution to household smoke.
Details:
As the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that over 3.2m persons are killed worldwide every year by household smoke, experts under non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have called for mass domestic use of liquefied petroleum gas (lpg).
The groups are said to be working round the clock to cause effective intervention through the lpg revelation.
The research work of a climate technologist, Clinton Dandison, is known to make waves in the Niger Delta. The high-tech expert is attached to an NGO, Sustainable Actions for Nature (SAN) Nigeria, as programme manager.
The group is said to be actively developing environmentally friendly initiatives in collaboration with various partners which aim to create awareness models and promote the adoption of clean cooking practices while also empowering young individuals and fostering sustainable livelihoods for millions in the oil region.
In a report released by SAN’s Grace Alawa, the Executive Director, Dandison was said to have identified challenges associated with traditional cooking methods.
The report confirms that the smoke produced during cooking using firewood contains harmful pollutants like carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds, which the report said can cause respiratory problems, lung diseases, and eye irritation.
A study in the University of Port Harcourt had earlier identified such situation as major cause of ear, nose and throat cancer (pharyngeal cancer).
The Dandison report however added that heavy reliance on firewood and charcoal for cooking has put immense pressure on Nigeria’s forests threatening the survival of biodiversity.
“Gathering firewood and preparing charcoal require significant time and effort, mainly falling on the shoulders of women and children. This practice hampers their access to education, economic opportunities, and other activities that could contribute to their overall well-being.”
Dandison reports that by expediting the provision of clean cooking solutions in households, however, Nigeria has the power to save citizens, improve productivity, prevent diseases, and avoid disabilities.
How lpg can come to the rescue:
LPG is said to be a versatile fuel that consists of propane and butane, which are hydrocarbon gases derived from the processing of natural gas or crude oil.
The huge significance and importance of LPG as a clean cooking fuel is said to lie in its numerous advantages over the inefficient traditional cooking fuels.
Looking at the advantages of lpg, the researcher said it emits significantly lower levels of harmful pollutants such as particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. “This cleaner combustion contributes to better household air quality and reduces the impact on human health and the environment.”
The study also says lpg offers convenience in various aspects. “It provides instant heat and can be easily controlled, allowing for precise cooking temperatures which saves time.
“LPG is highly energy efficient, meaning it produces more heat per unit of fuel compared to traditional solid fuels. This efficiency translates into reduced fuel consumption.”
Dandison reports that in many Nigerian communities, cooking practices heavily rely on traditional methods, particularly biomass fuels such as firewood and charcoal. While the use of these fuels has been deeply ingrained in Nigerian culture for centuries, he says there are several challenges associated with them.
Examining the options offered by lpg, the researcher says using it for cooking in Nigeria has several economic benefits that can positively impact Nigerian communities. The report explores how lpg is providing economic opportunities, including job creation, entrepreneurship, and income generation.
“There will be a demand for skilled technicians involved in the installation, maintenance, and repair of lpg equipment and infrastructure. This can create employment opportunities for individuals with technical skills in plumbing, electrical work, and gas appliance servicing.
“Entrepreneurs can establish businesses involved in lpg products and accessories distribution, retail, and delivery services. These ventures can range from small to large-scale enterprises such as local lpg refill stations to larger distribution networks. This decentralized business model can allow individuals to start their own businesses, contribute to the local economy, and create employment opportunities for others.”
Dandison looked at challenges and solutions of adopting lpg as a clean cooking fuel in Nigeria, focusing on affordability. “The cost of acquiring lpg equipment and refilling cylinders can be a significant barrier for many households in Nigeria.”
He reports that the initial investment for purchasing a gas stove, cylinders, and regulators may be high for low-income families. “This can be addressed through subsidies and financial incentives. The government can provide subsidies or financial incentives to make lpg equipment and refills more affordable specifically for low-income households.
“The infrastructure for lpg distribution and supply chain is underdeveloped in many areas of Nigeria. There is a lack of refilling stations and distribution networks, especially in rural regions, making it difficult for people to access lpg. Investments should be made in expanding the lpg distribution infrastructure, including the establishment of refilling stations and distribution networks in both urban and rural areas. This will enhance accessibility and availability of LPG for consumers across the country.”
The study looked at safety concerns, saying there is a lack of awareness and understanding about the safe handling and use of lpg among consumers in Nigeria. “Accidents related to gas leakage and improper use of equipment are a common concern. This safety perception can discourage people from adopting lpg as a cooking fuel. To address this, the government, in collaboration with relevant agencies and stakeholders, should launch comprehensive safety campaigns to educate the public about the safe handling and use of lpg. Stricter regulations and enforcement of safety standards can help build consumer confidence in using LPG as a cooking fuel.”
The report says many people in Nigeria are not familiar with the benefits of lpg as a clean cooking fuel, thus the need for mass awareness. He called for community-based training programs to teach safe practices and proper usage of lpg equipment.
The report also calls for collaboration between the government, private sector, and international organizations to help drive the adoption of lpg in Nigeria. “Partnerships can focus on funding infrastructure development, subsidizing equipment, conducting awareness campaigns, and providing technical support to enhance the adoption of lpg as a clean cooking fuel.”
Calling for sustained drive for lpg, Dandison says the use of lpg as a clean cooking fuel has the potential to bring about significant transformation. “It not only addresses the health and environmental issues associated with traditional cooking methods but also contributes to the overall development of the nation. To fully unlock the benefits and ensure a sustainable energy future, continued efforts and collaboration are essential.
“It is important for the government to play an active role in promoting lpg usage. Policies and regulations formulated should also be implemented to encourage the adoption of lpg as a cooking fuel.
“In conclusion, the adoption of lpg as a clean cooking fuel in Nigerian communities has the potential to bring about positive change. It is a collective responsibility of the government, private sector, and other stakeholders to work together, formulate supportive policies, invest in infrastructure, and promote awareness and education. By doing so, we can ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all Nigerians.”
