#United States #San Francisco #Cool Effect #Clean Cookstoves #Carbon Credits

Cool Effect Launches Its Second Annual 'Give the Gift of Clean Air' Campaign

Cool Effect, a nonprofit organization based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is set to reignite its 'Give the Gift of Clean Air' campaign this year in alignment with Giving Tuesday. The initiative is focused on funding the installation of clean cookstoves in rural communities across Honduras and Guatemala, areas that urgently need environmental and health improvements.

Since its founding in 2015, Cool Effect has been dedicated to high-integrity carbon emission reduction and removal projects worldwide. Following the success of last year's campaign, which saw a remarkable response from supporters, Cool Effect is working towards the ambitious goal of donating more than 100 clean cookstoves to families on a waiting list by the end of 2024.

The Need for Clean Cookstoves

In many rural parts of Central America, families heavily rely on traditional wood-burning stoves that produce harmful emissions. These stoves release soot and toxic fumes, contributing to severe health risks such as respiratory diseases. According to the World Health Organization, exposure to household air pollution from cooking fuels leads to millions of premature deaths each year.

Transitioning to clean cookstoves can significantly reduce this environmental and health crisis. Each clean cookstove funded by Cool Effect can lower carbon emissions by up to three tonnes annually, dramatically improving indoor air quality. More importantly, using these stoves decreases carbon monoxide levels by about 79%, providing a healthier cooking environment.

Impact on Local Communities

Implementing clean cookstoves in rural communities does not just address environmental issues; it also brings economic benefits. Families save both time and money by reducing the frequency of firewood collection, while the initiative creates local job opportunities in the manufacturing and maintenance of cookstoves. According to Dee Lawrence, the co-founder and director of Cool Effect, the campaign's real-life impact cannot be overstated. Families see improvements not just in health, but also in their overall living conditions.

Since its inception, Cool Effect has played a pivotal role in the distribution of over 330,000 clean cookstoves through its “Breath of Fresh Air” carbon project. The popularity of these stoves has spread through word-of-mouth, amplifying the reach of their mission even further.

How People Can Help

To support this vital cause, Cool Effect encourages environmental advocates to purchase verified carbon credits. There are multiple ways individuals can contribute:

• - Donate an el cinco for $12: This essential maintenance tool ensures each clean cookstove operates efficiently throughout its life.
• - Donate a plancha for $60: This steel stovetop heats quicker and cooks evenly, significantly enhancing the cooking experience compared to traditional methods.
• - Donate a new cookstove for $85: Fully fund the installation of a new cookstove, directly impacting a family's life.

Jodi Manning, Cool Effect's CEO, expressed enthusiasm about re-launching the 'Give the Gift of Clean Air' campaign, emphasizing how the holiday season often inspires generosity. She noted that many individuals are seeking opportunities to support initiatives that benefit both the environment and underserved communities.

The Bigger Picture

Cool Effect remains committed to its mission of educating and inspiring action against climate change. Endorsed by organizations like 1% for the Planet, the nonprofit returns over 90% of each donation directly to its project partners. Since its launch in 2015, Cool Effect has helped projects achieve compensation for more than eight million tonnes of emission reductions worldwide.

For those who wish to contribute to this impactful initiative, more information is available at cooleffect.org/cookstoves. By participating in this campaign, supporters not only help lower carbon emissions but also give families across Central America the chance for better health and overall quality of life.

Conclusion

As Cool Effect prepares to launch its second annual 'Give the Gift of Clean Air' campaign, it invites everyone to join in the fight against climate change and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Every contribution counts, and together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change that resonates across the globe.