Alternative to Charcoal Annual Progress Report FY 2021

The activity aims to reduce the demand for charcoal by promoting the use of alternative fuels and improving the business environment for Alternative to Fuelwood (ATF) producers. The activity is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through a contract with Tetra Tech/ARD. The activity has identified several market barriers for ATF producers, including limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of market information. To address these barriers, the activity has implemented several interventions, including training for ATF producers, infrastructure development, and market linkage facilitation. The activity has also established a business enabling environment for ATF producers, including the development of a business plan and the establishment of a network of ATF producers. The activity has made significant progress in promoting the use of alternative fuels, particularly in urban areas. In Lusaka District, for example, the activity has promoted the use of gasifier biomass stoves, which have been shown to be more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional charcoal stoves. The activity has also worked with local banks to provide financing for ATF producers, and has established a network of ATF producers who can provide training and support to new entrants into the market. The activity has also made progress in promoting social behavior change communications, including the use of mass media and community outreach programs to promote the use of alternative fuels. The activity has worked with local media outlets to produce public service announcements and has established a network of community outreach workers who can provide information and support to local communities. In terms of alternative livelihoods, the activity has promoted the use of biodigesters, which can provide a source of income for farmers and can also help to reduce the demand for charcoal. The activity has also worked with local communities to establish a network of ATF producers who can provide training and support to new entrants into the market. The activity has also made progress in improving monitoring and enforcement of the charcoal supply chain. The activity has worked with local authorities to establish a system for monitoring the charcoal trade and has provided training for law enforcement officials on how to identify and prosecute charcoal traders who are operating outside of the law. Overall, the Alternatives to Charcoal Activity in Zambia has made significant progress in promoting the use of alternative fuels and improving the business environment for ATF producers. The activity has also made progress in promoting social behavior change communications and improving monitoring and enforcement of the charcoal supply chain.