Seminar on improved cookstove held
Catalyzing Clean Energy in Bangladesh (CCEB), a project of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), organised the third annual Market Facilitation Platform for Improved Cookstoves (ICS) in Bangladesh with focus on creating a dynamic and sustainable market for clean cooking solutions.
USAID brings the platform with the theme Transitioning Towards a Sustainable Market at Bangabandu International Conference Centre yesterday in cooperation with The Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves (Alliance), hosted by the United Nations Foundation.
More than 200 entrepreneurs, donors, government stakeholders, national and international NGO officials convened to discuss strategies for the transition from a nascent to a sustainable ICS market, create employment opportunities through stove manufacture and distribution, and improve health outcomes for women and children.
Tajul Islam, chairman of the parliamentary standing committee of Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, said as the chief guest: The government is committed to reduce carbon emissions associated with inefficient cooking practices. It will provide all necessary assistance to encourage families to switch to cleaner and more efficient cooking technologies and fuels.
Farhad Ghaussy, director, Economic Growth Office, USAID Dhaka, emphasised the US Governments commitment to work with the Government of Bangladesh and with local cook stoves manufactures.
Farhad also said this kind of cookstoves will emit less harmful emissions thus posing no health hazards.
Arijit Basu, Alliances director for Asia and Sub Saharan Africa, thanked the Government and all partners for their endless support and commitment to the sector and hopes to work together to achieve the target of the Country Action Plan and make all kitchens in the country smoke free by 2030.
