There are currently more than 160 operating cookstove implementation programs in the world. A few thousand of the cookstove implementation program distribute  stoves in specific areas. This is due to high cost of alternative stoves, cookstove malfunction, and the lack of understanding as well as the importance of gender roles and discussing the adoption of alternative cookstove technology. In failing to include women in the household decision-making process, as they are predominantly responsible for childcare and meal preparation, it  can lead to a decrease in adoption of improved cookstoves.