Smoke-reduction technologies in developing countries Available to Purchase

Around half the world uses biomass for cooking—such as twigs, agricultural residues and dung. These fuels are mainly burnt on ‘three-stone fires’ or rudimentary stoves resulting in poor combustion efficiency and high levels of indoor air pollution in the kitchens in which they are burnt. Due to these practices, over 1·6 million people die annually, of whom 56% are children under five years. In terms of health, the most damaging biomass combustion products are believed to be respirable particulates and carbon monoxide. This paper draws on lessons learnt from a completed project in two rural areas of Kenya and from two ongoing international research projects in Kenya, Nepal and Sudan.