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- February 6, 2025
The Impact of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Emissions from Kerosene Lamps and Firewood in Rural Nigerian Communities: A 30-Year Projection and Climate Change Impact
Case Study: Ikot Ewa, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Ikot Ewa, a small off-grid community in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, represents thousands of rural settlements in the country that lack access to electricity. With no connection to the national grid, households in Ikot Ewa rely heavily on kerosene lamps and firewood for lighting and cooking. These traditional energy sources release significant amounts of carbon monoxide (CO) and other harmful emissions, contributing to air pollution, respiratory diseases, and environmental degradation.
Current Impact of CO Emissions in Ikot Ewa and Similar Communities
1. Health Hazards
• Kerosene lamps emit high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), causing respiratory illnesses such as asthma, lung infections, and even long-term heart diseases.
• Prolonged exposure to CO is especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, leading to complications such as low birth weight and developmental issues.
2. Environmental Degradation
• Firewood burning leads to deforestation, reducing carbon sequestration capacity and worsening climate change.
• The release of CO and black carbon accelerates global warming by absorbing sunlight and reducing atmospheric reflectivity.
3. Economic Burden on Low-Income Households
• Families in Ikot Ewa spend up to 30% of their income on kerosene and firewood. This expense keeps them trapped in energy poverty, unable to invest in more sustainable solutions.
• The reliance on inefficient lighting sources limits productivity at night, affecting education and economic activities.
30-Year Projection of CO Emissions and Climate Impact in Ikot Ewa
Without intervention, the continued reliance on kerosene and firewood in Ikot Ewa and similar communities could have devastating effects over the next three decades:
• Increased Health Risks: Respiratory diseases will rise, leading to higher mortality rates, especially among vulnerable populations.
• Deforestation Acceleration: More trees will be cut down for firewood, further depleting Nigeria’s already threatened forest reserves.
• Rising CO Emissions: The cumulative CO emissions from thousands of similar communities will contribute significantly to global warming.
• Extreme Climate Events: Higher CO emissions will contribute to rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and increased droughts, severely impacting agriculture and food security.
Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited’s Role in Reducing CO Emissions and Combating Climate Change
To address these issues, Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited, through its community energy brand Solarity, is leading the transition to clean and sustainable energy in rural Nigeria.
1. Providing Affordable Solar Home Lighting Systems
Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited is offering low-cost solar-powered home lighting solutions to off-grid communities like Ikot Ewa. These solar kits replace kerosene lamps and reduce CO emissions, ensuring cleaner indoor air and healthier living conditions.
2. Promoting Sustainable Energy Access
Through Solarity, the company is working to ensure that every household in energy-deprived communities has access to solar lanterns, home systems, and mini-grid solutions. This initiative helps eliminate the need for kerosene and firewood lighting, drastically cutting carbon emissions.
3. Reducing Deforestation and Climate Change Impact
By promoting the adoption of solar energy, Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited is reducing the demand for firewood, thereby slowing deforestation and preserving Nigeria’s forests. This, in turn, enhances the country’s ability to absorb CO2 and mitigate climate change.
4. Economic Empowerment and Job Creation
Beyond environmental impact, Solarity’s solar initiatives create new opportunities for local entrepreneurs and technicians, generating employment and fostering sustainable economic growth in these communities.
5. Community Education and Awareness
Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited is also actively educating rural dwellers about the dangers of kerosene and firewood use, while advocating for a shift to solar solutions. Through workshops and grassroots campaigns, they are increasing awareness of the benefits of clean energy.
Conclusion
However, through innovative solar solutions provided by Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited’s community energy brand Solarity, these communities can transition to cleaner, affordable, and sustainable energy. By reducing CO emissions, preventing deforestation, and improving livelihoods, Vanpeux Global Synergy Limited is playing a crucial role in Nigeria’s fight against climate change and energy poverty.
With continued investment and collaboration, a carbon-free future is within reach for Nigeria’s most vulnerable communities.
