Environmental Impact of Improved Cooking Stove: Users' Perspective in Badimalika Municipality in Bajura District

Abstract

Traditional biomass remains the primary source of household cooking energy in rural Nepal, contributing to deforestation, environmental degradation, and indoor air pollution. This reliance has led to deforestation, soil erosion, and ecological imbalance. Improved Cooking Stoves (ICS) offer a sustainable alternative by reducing fuel consumption and improving household well-being. In this context, this study has assessed the environmental impact of ICS in the context of users' perspective in Ward No. 9, Badimalika Municipality in Bajura, Nepal. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys of 36 households and interviews with three ICS users. The findings revealed that ICS reduced firewood consumption significantly and saved time spent collecting fuel, enabling greater participation in income generation, education, and childcare. While ICS promoted forest regeneration and environmental awareness, high initial costs, cultural mismatch, and limited maintenance services remained key challenges. The study highlights the potential of ICS to promote environmental sustainability, household health, and rural people's empowerment, emphasizing the need for affordable, culturally appropriate stoves and accessible maintenance services.