Founded in 2010, UpEnergy is focused on expanding access to clean and energy-efficient cookstoves in rural communities. These stoves dramatically cut down on smoke and harmful gas emissions. It also partners with technology manufacturers and local partners on the
Founded in 2010, UpEnergy is focused on expanding access to clean and energy-efficient cookstoves in rural communities. These stoves dramatically cut down on smoke and harmful gas emissions. It also partners with technology manufacturers and local partners on the ground to deliver water purification equipment, solar lighting at affordable prices.
Kiva's partnership with UpEnergy will start in Uganda, where 96% of rural households collect or buy expensive firewood for cooking, lighting and heating. Many use traditional three-stone fires, which are not only super inefficient, but also extremely polluting. Imagine a fire inside a tiny indoor space, and the smoke that people must inhale. Respiratory issues are widespread for this reason. And, not surprisingly, women and children bear the brunt of this problem because they are most involved in cooking and household maintenance.
Wood burning stoves also contribute 