With our Biogas Initiative, TGF continues to make efforts towards sustainable energy development in rural Cambodia. This year, another eight participants from our Integrated Farmer Field Schools (IFFS) are selected to receive support on building biogas units to transform their energy access.
Construction Progress
The construction involves straightforward steps, starting with site selection and manure availability, and includes cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and their selected constructors. After complete construction, the farmers easily prepare a mixture of manure and water which fuels the biogas production. After fermentation, the produced gas is then used for cooking, and the end product, the so-called ‘slurry’ serves as a high-quality bio-fertilizer.
Funding and Collaboration
Each biogas unit is part of a collaborative funding model. TGF contributes $350 towards construction costs while participating families contribute an additional $100-$150 (depending on material costs) to complete the payment. As the construction is done by a selected company, in agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture, a 10-year warranty on most parts is offered. This approach ensures sustainability and quality in the implementation of each unit.
Impact and Support
The Biogas Initiative is transforming rural lifestyles by offering cleaner, renewable energy sources that replace traditional fuels. This shift not only promotes healthier living by reducing smoke in homes but also saves significant time (mainly for women) otherwise spent gathering fuel. The production of organic fertilizer as a by-product enhances soil fertility and crop yields, supporting sustainable agriculture while also helping to reduce fuel costs and increase farm productivity. Additionally, this initiative plays a crucial role in environmental conservation by reducing the consumption of wood fuel and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
Supporting this initiative contributes to comprehensive and sustainable improvements in the quality of life for Cambodian rural communities, emphasizing environmental responsibility and economic empowerment.
