This morning news roundup from EESI, one of our favorite sources, brings two indirect endorsements for better stoves and sustainable solid biomass fuels, the cornerstones of The Charcoal Project’s BEEP (Biomass Energy Efficiency Program) initiative.
I. Technology to Prevent Climate Change Available
According to a recent report by the United Nations Environment Program, the world already has the technology necessary to manage climate change effectively. Another recent report by Greenpeace International maintained that “we have the technology today to ensure a transition to a greener, safer, and more equitable economy.” Some strategies the United Nations Environment Program listed as effective ways to mitigate climate change include adopting renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, switching to more sustainable fuels, increasing public transportation and fuel-efficient vehicles, and effectively managing agricultural emissions and waste streams. The report stressed that all of these strategies are currently technologically and economically feasible, but international collaboration through forums such as the Durban talks are still necessary to help mitigate climate change.
For additional information see: Business Day, UNEP
II. Fast Action on Non-CO2 Climate Pollutants Can Cut Rate of Warming in Half
A new UNEP policy report details how fast action to reduce non-CO2 short-lived climate forcers (SLCF) represents a “win-win” for climate mitigation, public health, and food security, with benefits that justify action regardless of climate change policy. The report provides policy pathways to implement SLCF control measures, building upon existing institutions, policies, and regulatory frameworks. If action is taken now, such cuts can reduce the rate of overall global warming in half, and by two-thirds in the Arctic over the next 30-60 years. “The scientific case for fast action on these so-called ‘Short-Lived Climate Forcers’ has been steadily built over more than a decade,” said Achim Steiner, UNEP Executive Director. “UNEP has shown us the tools to fight back against near-term climate change and protect the most vulnerable people and places from the worst impacts of climate change,” said Durwood Zaelke, President of the Institute for Governance & Sustainable Development.
For additional information see: UNEP Report, UNEP News Centre, The Guardian
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I am watching the documentary with Amy Smith at the TED conference, and I was just wondering if wood gas can be made from corn cobs. If it can, then it can be used to fuel the charcoal manufacturing process, making that good idea better. I saw the wood gas idea on a TV show called the colony. They made it with two steel drums and a bit of tubing, and used ot to run a generator. If wood gas can be made from them, your idea could be expanded a little to include the wood gas to power something like a water pump or generator. Maybe you have already been ding this, but I just thought I should try to help.
Dear Gabriel,
Thank you for thinking about better ways to make charcoal and briquettes. The gasification process that results from charcoal making is indeed a potentially valuable source of energy to power a generator or other device. This is something that is being worked on. The challenge is that the overwhelming majority of charcoal makers we deal with are very poor people with very little resources living in remote areas. And corn cobs are not always available in every culture. Still, we greatly appreciate your thoughts!
Best regards,
Kim
The Charcoal Project