Present patterns of energy use in many parts of the world contribute to the mutually reinforcing problems of environmental damage, poor health (particularly among women and children), poverty and under-development.
Recognising this, Agenda 21, (the policy document resulting from the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development), called for the development of sound energy policies and practices. Good household energy policies can be of considerable benefit to developing countries' efforts to reduce the vulnerability of the poor, protect the environment, and to promote long-term, sustainable development.
This document, published by HEDON, examines the contributions that appropriate household energy policies and practices can make to the aims of Agenda 21. These are in the areas of: combatting deforestation and desertification; protecting the earth's atmosphere; promoting education and the position of women; health; strengthening NGOs and the private sector; ensuring sustainable fuel supply; improving agricultural productivity; combatting poverty; and improving planning and architecture with a view to energy conservation and efficiency. It also includes examples of some of the activities undertaken by HEDON members.
The paper examines some of the problems arising from present modes of household energy use in developing countries, and looks at some possible solutions. Its central theme is that governments and communities must take measures to ensure that supply for future energy demand is covered, and that energy is used in the cleanest and most efficient manner possible.
HEDON emphasizes the cross-sectoral nature of both the problems and their solutions which typically involve many authorities, including those dealing with energy, forestry, agriculture, health, transport, urban planning, education, environment and industry. A major area of concern is that present donor, administrative, and government agencies are often too sectorally based and autonomous to provide effective policies and the necessary long-term strategic planning. New supra-sectoral structures and policies are called for, involving the full participation of all those involved and affected.
The subject formed the basis of the HEDON meeting in Rome in September 1994, where a draft document was presented by GTZ. It was finalized at the HEDON meeting in Lund, Sweden, in September 1995.
This document does not attempt to cover all issues relating to household energy development, but is merely one perspective on some of the pertinent issues. It is intended for lobbyists and all those working in development and environmental protection.
