Análisis de la Implementación de cocinas de leña modificadas en el municipio de Silvia Cauca

Abstract

The use of firewood as the primary energy source for cooking remains a widespread practice in rural areas of Colombia, especially in departments with a high proportion of rural populations, such as Cauca. This situation is linked to socioeconomic and cultural factors, as well as limited access to modern energy services, forcing many families to rely on traditional fuels such as biomass. In the municipality of Silvia (Cauca), the use of traditional wood-burning stoves is a cultural practice deeply rooted in rural and indigenous communities. However, this method of cooking has significant environmental and health impacts. On the one hand, the collection of firewood places pressure on forest resources, contributing to deforestation and ecosystem degradation. On the other hand, the combustion of biomass in poorly ventilated spaces causes indoor air pollution, increasing exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and posing health risks such as respiratory infections, chronic lung diseases, and eye conditions, especially among women, children, and older adults. In light of this problem, the study analyzes various technological alternatives for clean cookstoves, with different types of models designed for a range of needs. Through a literature review and analysis of previous experiences, these technologies were evaluated based on sociocultural, technical, and economic criteria, taking into account their feasibility in rural contexts such as Silvia’s. Among the models analyzed, the fixed or in-situ stove, the modular mobile stove, and the Improved Biomass Cookstove with Chimney (ICS)—known as Improved Cookstoves—stand out. These technologies aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce firewood consumption, and lower indoor pollutant emissions. In particular, improved stoves incorporate more efficient combustion chambers and smoke exhaust systems, which significantly reduce exposure to indoor pollutants. As a result of the comparative analysis, it was determined that the improved biomass stove with a chimney (ICS) is the most viable option for the municipality of Silvia, due to its compatibility with traditional cooking practices, its technical feasibility in rural homes, and its potential to improve health conditions and reduce firewood consumption. However, its implementation requires consideration of key aspects such as community participation, adaptation to local customs, proper installation of the smoke exhaust system, and the establishment of maintenance and monitoring strategies. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of integrating economic and institutional components that ensure the project’s sustainability, including co-financing schemes, user training, and the availability of replacement parts. The goal is to prevent the technology from being abandoned and a return to traditional stoves. In conclusion, the implementation of modified wood-burning stoves represents a viable solution for mitigating the environmental and health impacts associated with biomass use in rural areas, provided that it is approached from a comprehensive perspective that takes into account the social, cultural, economic, and technological dimensions of the region.