Most families in the Western Highlands of Guatemala depend on firewood as their main cooking fuel. This situation presents social, health, environmental and economic challenges for the community. Women and girls are particularly affected as they traditionally perform most household tasks, including collecting firewood and preparing food. When families cannot gather firewood nearby, they buy it, which is a direct economic blow to the household. Additionally, families, especially those responsible for preparing meals, are exposed to smoke with the traditional open-fire cooking method.
USAID's Communities Leading Their Future (CLD) project implemented by CRS helps families with the construction of energy-efficient stoves and related training in their proper use and maintenance. The stoves are helping families achieve better living conditions with better use of natural resources. Energy-saving stoves promote the rational and efficient use of forest resources, a sustainable alternative and a tangible improvement in the quality of life of families, a motivating factor for families to prosper in their communities.