This study looked at the effects of select behavior change interventions on the purchase and the correct and consistent use of a locally fabricated top-lit updraft (TLUD) stove in Uganda. Behavior change interventions included training of community sales agents and village health team volunteers on household air pollution and correct use, referral of interested community members to sales agents, community cooking demonstrations, information flyers, and direct sales of TLUDs and processed wood. Qualitative and quantitative research methods shaped interventions and were used to understand attitudes and practices related to TLUD stove acquisition and use. Results showed that TLUDs were appreciated because they use wood efficiently, cook quickly, reduce smoke, and produce charcoal. However, the substantial purchase price barrier, combined with the cost of processed wood, effectively eliminated the cost savings from its significant fuel efficiency. This made it difficult for the TLUD to be a meaningful part of most households' cooking practices.
Nearly three billion people worldwide burn solid fuels and kerosene in open fires and inefficient stoves to cook, light, and heat their homes. Cleaner-burning stoves reduce emissions and can have positive health, climate, and women’s empowerment benefits. This article reports on the protocol and baseline data from the evaluation of four behavior change communication (BCC) campaigns carried out in lower to middle income countries aimed at promoting the sale and use of cleaner-burning stoves. Interventions implemented in Bangladesh, Kenya, and Nigeria are using a range of BCC methods including mass media, digital media, outdoor advertising, and inter-personal communication. The mixed methods evaluation comprises three large-scale surveys: one pre-BCC and two follow-ups, along with smaller scale assessments of stove uptake and patterns of use. Baseline results revealed varying levels of awareness of previous promotions and positive attitudes and beliefs about modern (i.e., relatively clean-burning) cookstoves. Differences in cookstove preferences and behaviors by gender, socio-demographics, media use, and country/region were observed that may affect outcomes. Across all three countries, cost (lack of funds) a key perceived barrier to buying a cleaner-burning stove. Future multivariate analyses will examine potential dose-response effects of BCC on cookstove uptake and patterns of use. BCC campaigns have the potential to promote modern cookstoves at scale. More research on campaign effectiveness is needed, and on how to optimize messages and channels. This evaluation builds on a limited evidence base in the field.
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