Officials from the Cookstove Laboratory at the Institute of Industrial Research of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (IIR-CSIR) are optimistic about the center's role in enhancing air quality and promoting clean cooking solutions. Positioned to support Ghana and the continent, the laboratory aims to contribute to climate action plans by reducing emissions from traditional cookstoves.
Dr Ferdinand Tornyie, a Scientist at CSIR-IIR, highlighted recent advancements in the laboratory's capacity, including ISO accreditation and participation in the Round Robin Testing Programme. Through this initiative, supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the UN Foundation's Clean Cooking Alliance, the lab ensures that its testing meets international standards, fostering credibility and reliability.
Dr Tornyie emphasized the laboratory's relevance amid Ghana's efforts to adopt clean cook technology, essential for reducing emissions and supporting adaptation activities. He noted that compliance with legislation requires individuals or companies trading in improved cookstoves to obtain test results from CSIR-IIR before regulatory approval.
The laboratory conducts ISO tests on approximately 15 cookstoves per month and aims to expand its facilities with support. Beyond testing, lab scientists provide technical advice, co-design stoves, and conduct research on user adoption and efficiency.
Dr Reginald Quansah, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Ghana, highlighted the health risks associated with traditional cookstoves, emphasizing their link to respiratory diseases, particularly affecting women and children. He underscored the importance of advanced cookstoves and cleaner fuels in saving lives, empowering women, and mitigating environmental impacts.
According to the World Health Organization, harmful cookstove smoke ranks as the fifth leading cause of death in developing countries. The reliance on biomass for cooking not only endangers health but also strains natural resources and exacerbates climate change.
Clean and efficient cookstoves offer a multifaceted solution, delivering health, environmental, livelihood, and gender benefits. By reducing fuel use and exposure to harmful smoke, these solutions offer a promising investment with substantial long-term gains.