Clean cooking explained: why the switch away from charcoal is slow
Cleaner stoves and fuels exist. Price, habit and supply chains explain why many households still rely on charcoal and firewood.
By Daniel Otieno. 7 Oct 2026, 12:00 EAT
Cooking with charcoal and firewood affects forests, household budgets and health. Alternatives such as LPG, ethanol, biogas and electric pressure cookers are available, but each has trade-offs.
• Upfront cost of the stove or cylinder
• Reliable access to refills or electricity
• Whether the fuel suits the dishes people cook every day