Gold Standard Foundation GS 7591 VPA 53 Improved Cookstove Distribution in Kayonza, Bugesera and Nyamasheke Districts of Rwanda (GS 12227)

This project involves the distribution and installation of fuel-efficient improved cookstoves (ICS) to households across the Kayonza, Bugesera, and Nyamasheke Districts of Rwanda. The project is composed of three distinct Gold Standard project IDs (GS11205, GS12227, GS12228) which are managed as a single initiative. The primary goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing traditional, inefficient three-stone open fires with the locally produced 'Canarumwe' ceramic stove, which is built into a mud hearth in the users' kitchens. Environmental Benefits: The project directly addresses climate change by reducing the consumption of non-renewable biomass (firewood) for daily cooking. In Rwanda, where over 98% of rural households rely on wood for cooking, this leads to a significant decrease in CO2 emissions and helps to alleviate pressure on local forests, contributing to conservation efforts. Social and Community Benefits: The project delivers substantial co-benefits to the recipient communities. By burning less wood more efficiently, the stoves reduce exposure to harmful indoor air pollution, a major cause of respiratory illness, particularly for women and children. The increased efficiency also means households, and specifically women who are traditionally responsible for cooking and fuel collection, spend significantly less time and effort gathering firewood. This time can be redirected to other economic or educational activities. Furthermore, for households that purchase fuel, the project reduces household expenditure, freeing up income for other essential needs.