Box kiln for charcoal production
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Reduce demand on wood energy
Training on efficient charcoal production
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Distribution of cook stoves
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Two approaches to the energy-efficient use of wood energy have been introduced in the project communities. 5000 efficient charcoal cookstoves and 5 mobile charcoal kilns (Adam box kiln) have been distributed for improved charcoal production and consumption. The box kiln has been proven to have an efficiency of 30% compared to traditional kilns and is easier and cheaper to construct than conventional metal kilns. The local communities have been trained in the operation of the metal box kiln. In addition, training of trainers was conducted to introduce other more efficient ways of charcoal production like e.g. the Casamance technique.
The majority of the charcoal producers in Ghana are using the earth mound technique to produce charcoal with low efficiency of mostly below 20%. With improved techniques, efficiencies can be improved by up to 35% which can half the demand for wood for producing the same amount of charcoal. In addition, carbonisation is done in fewer days and needs less work labour.
Charcoal producers welcomed the box kiln due to the faster carbonization, higher efficiency and less work (e.g. no digging of soil). As the charcoal producers work mainly individual it is important to establish producer groups so the kiln can be used continually. As the charcoal production normally takes place where the trees are logged, it is also important to arrange a transportation system for the box kiln or use it beside the established energy wood plantations where higher amounts of biomass are available.