Socio-economic and health benefits of renewable energy using improved cooking stoves: A theoretical perspective

Muhammad Abrar-ul-Haq, Mohd Razani Mohd Jali, Muhammad Atif Nawaz

Index: 10.1016/j.rser.2017.06.087

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Abstract

Most of the people, in developing countries, live under sustenance in rural areas and are dependent upon agriculture and use traditional biomass as a source of energy. Due to changing climate, this dependence on agriculture and traditional biomass makes them more vulnerable and deteriorates the environment as well. Therefore, this study attempts to highlight the potential of using renewable energy options to reduce this vulnerability. The research focuses on solar energy and efficient use of biomass through improved cooking stoves. The issue of reducing vulnerability is addressed by looking at the use of solar energy and enhanced individuals’ adaptive capacity with the use of improved cooking stoves. It is concluded that the use of solar energy and efficient use of biomass reduce individuals’ vulnerability to climate change and improve their health, income, education, and social life. It also shows that both solar energy and improved cooking stoves have environmental benefits.