APPEAR contributes to reducing use of firewood and CO2 emissions in Ethiopia

In 2023-2024 a total of 3.470,72 Euro have been contributed to the GREEN SEED - project aimed at reducing firewood consumption, lowering wood demand, and cutting CO₂ emissions. The goal is to reduce 25.000 tons of CO2 over five years by using more energy-efficient cookstoves. The project is implemented by Caritas of the Diocese of Feldkirch, International Aid section, Meki Catholic Secretariat, and University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU)

Three billion people in rural areas of developing countries rely on biomass, often without access to efficient cooking facilities. This contributes to poverty, disease, and inequality. Every year, more than one billion tons of biomass are used worldwide, primarily for traditional cooking and heating. In Ethiopia, over 90% of energy comes from biomass, with 98% of rural households using firewood and charcoal. The high demand leads to deforestation in many African regions. GREEN SEED aims to imrprove the energy supply in rural areas in Oromia Regional State, Arsi and East Shewa Administrative Zones building sustainable landscapes and livelihoods.