Alternatives to Charcoal (MEL)

(Zambia): .The Alternatives to Charcoal (A2C) mechanism will address national-level threats that drive deforestation, in particular, the over-reliance on charcoal for household energy and the lack of sustainable alternative-energy options. Charcoal production results in forest degradation and deforestation, including key habitat for wildlife and associated ecotourism. With FY 2022 funding, A2C will engage the private sector to address market barriers and pilot financing instruments to promote the uptake of alternatives to charcoal, while also introducing policy and regulatory reforms to improve the business enabling environment and regulation of the charcoal sector. During FY 2022, A2C will increase awareness and generate behavioral change in supporting alternative fuels and technologies. A2C will roll out its grants program to support development of innovative products, services, or business models within ATF value chains. A2C will work with Community Forest Management Groups and build the capacity of community-based Honorary Forest Officers. A2C will develop protocols and build the capacity of the Forest Department in forest monitoring of charcoal impacts in targeted districts.

Source: IATI activity description, US-GOV-1-72061121C00001 (2021). The source's own text.