Our Story
Adopt-A-Cookstove began as a project within the Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, at the University of California, Santa Barbara. We were investigating different models of cookstoves and measuring the environmental impacts of the cookstoves with different types of fuel. As we learned more about the issues of inefficient cooking methods, we wanted to do more.
We created Adopt-A-Cookstove, so that we could have a greater role in the solution to this problem. Now, we are taking what we learned in the lab and applying it in our choice of cookstove to maximize the benefits of using efficient cookstoves.
We work with some amazing partners that facilitate our work. World Dance for Humanity works in 28 rural cooperatives in Rwanda, and has recently been recognized as one of the most impactful organizations in the country. They work through another partner of ours, African Blessings to have an increased on-the-ground presence. By working with these two organizations we are able to have honest discussions with members of these cooperatives and ensure that the cookstoves we provide are the best for their needs.
The Vision
We envision a world with empowered and healthy local communities and reduced global greenhouse gas emissions
The Mission
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions, while improving human health and livelihood, especially for women and children in developing countries by replacing inefficient cooking methods with efficient cookstoves
Our Process
Cookstoves are purchased by companies as carbon offset credit or by individual donors
Cookstoves are distributed to rural Rwandans to be used
Users are taught how to use and care for the stoves
Check-ins with users are done to ensure stoves are in optimal shape & performance