Gulu University has launched the first ever green Charcoal project aimed at mitigating the drastic effect of climate change in the region.
The Project dubbed “Unlocking The Potential Of Green Charcoal Innovation To Mitigate Climate Change In Northern Uganda [UPCHAIN] was launched this week under the theme: ‘developing and inclusive Green Charcoal Innovation Model for adoption in Sub-saharan Africa.’’
The project entails use of Retort and Casamance Kilns which are not only environmentally friendly but are compatible with the expectations of the communities. This is because they generate good quality charcoal using less wood enabling the benefitting communities to earn more while cutting down less trees.
Professor George Openjuru, the Vice Chancellor of Gulu University in his remarks stated that this is a Multi-year project will train 6 PhD and 12 Masters students, who will in turn work with partner Universities in Denmark
“We would like to get the cheapest way of getting green charcoal and this will go a long way in fighting deforestation and climate change in the region.’’ said Professor Laddaa
He added that they are working with partner Universities like Aarlborg University and University of Copenhagen where their students will get further training.
Adjumani District Chairman, Hon. Ben Anyama applauded this initiative by Gulu University saying that it will go a long way in fighting the Illegal Charcoal business and tree cutting in Northern Uganda
According to Dr. Okello Collins, the Co-Principle Investigator, green charcoal Is a promising alternative to black charcoal because it is socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.
“There is a need for research based knowledge, identifying the right development drivers and incentives to ensure its integration into solid fuel cooking, its contribution towards deforestation reduction, and ultimately mitigation of climate change”
