A recent study unveiled a startling reality in Satkhira, revealing that a staggering 94% of the urban poor populace remains unfamiliar with the concept of “renewable energy.”
This revelation emerged during a dialogue titled “Current use of energy by urban poor and challenges in adoption of renewable energy: Perspective of Satkhira city,” orchestrated by the Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK) at the Satkhira Central Public Library auditorium on Monday.
The dialogue further disclosed that approximately 16% of these families’ monthly income is earmarked for electricity and cooking expenditures.
With an average monthly expenditure of Tk2,372, families in Satkhira allocate Tk1,144 towards electricity and Tk1,227 towards cooking fuel. Kamruzzaman Sagar, the Project Director, presented the findings of the research conducted on energy consumption among Satkhira’s urban poor.
This study, conducted by BARCIK, spanned across Dhaka, Rajshahi, and Satkhira to comprehend the challenges impeding the utilization of renewable energy among the impoverished.
Findings indicate a diverse usage of fuel among urban poor households in Satkhira, with 95% relying on wood for cooking, 58% utilizing tree leaves, 40% resorting to gas cylinders, and 32% employing plastic/polythene.
Moreover, in the past two years, 5% of households experienced accidents related to cooking, with 26% reporting severe coughing due to cooking fumes within the last six months.
Despite the imperative global push towards renewable energy, a staggering 94% of respondents admitted to being oblivious to the term during data collection.
However, a marginal 6% claimed familiarity, while approximately 3% disclosed the use of solar panels within Satkhira’s urban poor community.
Highlighting the Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan’s ambitious goals, the dialogue stressed the need for 30% renewable energy utilization by 2030 and a minimum of 40% by 2041.
With the government aiming for 100% clean cookstoves by 2030, inclusive policies are imperative. The study emphasizes the necessity for local governments and organizations to spearhead initiatives promoting renewable energy adoption to fulfill Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan pledges, mitigate climate risks, and combat pollution.
Enhanced public awareness and targeted initiatives are paramount, requiring collaborative efforts between governmental and private entities. Tailored packages, subsidized by both sectors, must be devised to cater to the unique needs of urban poor communities, ultimately fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.
