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Hydrocarbon emissions and health risks from cookstoves in developing countries
1Program on Environment, East-West Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. jjzhang@eohsi.rutgers.edu
Summary
Emissions from cookstoves in developing countries vary by fuel and stove type. Biomass fuels generally emit more hydrocarbons, but specific kerosene stoves can also produce high levels of concerning compounds.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Chemical Engineering
Background:
- Cookstoves are a primary source of indoor air pollution in developing nations.
- Nonmethane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) emitted from cookstoves pose significant health risks.
- Understanding fuel and stove-specific emissions is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify nonmethane hydrocarbon emissions from various cookstoves and fuels.
- To compare emission factors on both mass and task bases.
- To assess potential health risks associated with carcinogenic hydrocarbon emissions.
Main Methods:
- Pilot study conducted in Manila, Philippines.
- Tested four fuel types: wood, charcoal, kerosene, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
- Measured emissions from six fuel/stove combinations, identifying 59 NMHCs.
Main Results:
- Emission factors varied significantly by fuel and stove type.
- Biomass fuels (wood, charcoal) generally had higher task-based emission factors than fossil fuels (kerosene, LPG).
- A specific kerosene wick stove emitted high levels of certain hydrocarbons, highlighting device-specific impacts.
Conclusions:
- Cookstove emissions are influenced by both fuel and combustion device.
- Certain hydrocarbons (e.g., benzene, 1,3-butadiene) are of concern due to carcinogenic properties.
- Further research is needed to refine risk assessments for cookstove-related exposures.