The Seed-to-Ash Energy Cycle
A Brief Guide to Biomass Energy Farming and Utilization in Kenya
•Correct management and utilization of biomass is key to enhancing the efficiency of what can be a carbon neutral, environmentally friendly green energy solution for East Africa, the seed-to-ash-cycle.
•The most glaring loophole in the bio-energy system in Kenya is the general lack of widespread re-afforestation of wood energy crops.
•Use and knowledge of ‘fireplace technologies’ i.e. energy saving stoves, well managed open fire’s, drying firewood etc. needs to be further disseminated and the importance amplified.
•Knowledge and practice of dynamic holistic harvesting and processing of woodfuels needs to be more widely practiced. Charcoal making is a skilled artisan’s task, much like plumbing or mechanical work, training is extensive in order to achieve a high level of efficiency and sustainability. (and charcoal makers can become some of the best treeplanters)
•Structured implementable government policies focusing on opening new avenues of monetary incentives for good land husbandry practices. Training and certification is a must.
•Emergency re-afforestation efforts must be undertaken immediately to prevent further degradation of Kenya’s (and our neighbors’) environment. Widespread aerial tree seeding as practiced in China, Canada and the Philippines needs to be undertaken as soon as possible.
•Small scale polyculture agroforestry for Food, Fuel and Fodder following holistic management plans is already gaining widespread acceptance in rural areas but must be upscaled.
•Enabling those engaged in the seed-to-ash cycle, real opportunities to access money from carbon credits, will improve successful adaptation to climatic change and global warming among those it detrimentally affects most.
