Second Phase of Clean Cookstove Project Launched at Lalitpur

Lalitpur, Nepal — A national consultative meeting on the advanced clean-cooking stove (improved cookstove) project concluded successfully on Friday at Hotel Himalaya in Lalitpur. The second phase of this initiative drew active participation from stakeholders across federal government bodies, international agencies, research centers, NGOs, and environmental experts.

Speaking at the event, the Director of the organizing institution, Samīkṣhā Baral, emphasized the irony that while developing countries like Nepal contribute minimally to global carbon emissions, they are among the first and hardest hit by the impacts of climate change. She framed the meeting as the formal launch of the advisory phase of the project, noting it as a significant foundation for informed decision-making.

The organization’s International Operations Director, Steven Fan, gave a detailed technical presentation, outlining how the project aims to establish cooking environments in rural areas with significantly reduced smoke and soot. He announced a plan to distribute improved cookstoves free-of-cost in 17 local municipalities in the Terai region, highlighting the expected benefits: environmental impact, women’s time savings, reduced household expenditure, and improved health for children.

Chair of the program, Nikesh Adhikari, reassured participants that the project is being implemented in full coordination with the government, affirming that there is no legal or technical ambiguity. He addressed queries, many of which were further elaborated upon technically by Director Fan.

Also speaking, Mohan Ghimire, Under-Secretary at the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, expressed the government’s strong commitment to carbon-reduction initiatives and pledged support for effective implementation. From academia, Dr. Nani Raut, Assistant Professor at Kathmandu University, asserted confidence in the partnership with Nepal Treasure Carbon, anticipating that the collaboration will boost the production of skilled manpower through the university.

Representatives from national and international institutions focused on carbon emissions also shared their perspectives during the program.

It was noted that the first phase of consultations, held on 23 Shrawan with key stakeholders including the Climate Change Management Division and the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre, has already been completed. Friday’s event served as the expanded second-phase dialogue.

In closing, the organizing institution expressed deep gratitude to journalists covering sensitive topics around energy and environment, affirming its belief in ongoing cooperation in the days ahead.