Uwingabire, S., Chamshama, S. A. O., Nyberg, G., & Nduwamungu, J. (2024). Gasifier use for cooking and biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More production by smallholder farmers in Rwanda. Biofuels, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1080/17597269.2024.2381164

Rural households in Rwanda largely depend on biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More fuel, which often leads to significant fuel waste and air quality issues. A recent study compared the efficiency and benefits of two Top-Lit UpDraft (TLUD) gasifier stoves, the Gastov and Karundura, with the traditional three-stone fire (TSF) cookstove in Bugesera and Huye Districts. Using standardized cooking tests and a qualitative survey, the study evaluated cooking time, fuel usage, and biochar yield. Additionally, the survey gathered data on fuel availability, frequency of use, gasifier design, benefits, and challenges.

The results showed that while the TSF cooked meals faster, the gasifier stoves significantly reduced fuelwood consumption by 25–50% and produced biochar, which has multiple benefits. Survey responses indicated that fuelwood availability is low, making the fuel efficiency of gasifiers a crucial advantage. Participants highlighted benefits such as better temperature control, reduced need for constant supervision, biochar production, and less time required to gather fuelwood. The gasifier stoves also produced less smoke, which is healthier for women and children.

Moreover, the biochar produced by the TLUD gasifiers was seen positively. It not only aids in bioenergy production but also enhances energy security, reduces the need for off-farm biomass gathering, and improves soil productivity. Overall, the study suggests that TLUD gasifiers could offer a more sustainable and health-friendly cooking solution for rural Rwandan households.