We are proud to present the latest addition to the number of climate projects we support: Efficient Cookstoves in Burkina Faso. The project is certified by Gold Standard and contributes to reducing carbon dioxide emissions and improving living conditions for the people of Burkina Faso.

Why is this project important?

In Burkina Faso, biomass and firewood are the primary fuels used for cooking, especially in rural areas. This leads to rapid deforestation and exposes local communities to harmful smoke from inefficient stoves. This project contributes to:

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by lowering the demand for firewood and therefore counteracts deforestation.
  
• Improving air quality and decreasing the risk of respiratory diseases.
  
• Strengthen local communities by providing training in using and producing efficient stoves, which also creates local job opportunities.
  

How does the project work?

The project operates through two main strategies:

• Education and production – Local communities learn how to build and use more efficient stoves that require less firewood.
  
• Subsidized sales – Financial support makes it easier for households to afford efficient stoves.
  

Through these efforts, both fuel costs and the negative environmental impact are reduced.

Background

Burkina Faso is classified as one of the world’s least developed countries. Like many other underdeveloped nations, it is increasingly affected by the negative consequences of climate change.

At the same time, severe deforestation is taking place in the country. Firewood resources have been overexploited for a long time, and 105,000 hectares of forest disappear annually. Between 1980 and 2000, the total forest area shrank from 15.42 million hectares to 11.29 million hectares.

A significant portion of the population currently uses inefficient cooking methods that require large amounts of firewood, which is one of the causes of deforestation.

Traditional cooking methods also have a negative impact on public health. According to the WHO, smoke from household cooking is the fourth-largest contributing factor to diseases in Africa.

The goal of this project is to combat poverty and desertification in Burkina Faso while reducing carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere.

How do the efficient F3PA cookstoves work? 

The efficient F3PA cookstoves replace the traditional stove whilst respecting the local three stone cooking culture. The F3PA cookstove integrates the three stones from each household inside its design. These three stones represent the pillar of the household’s marital union. 

The F3PA is significantly more efficient than the traditional open fire three stone cooking method. It reduces wood consumption by more than half in each household.

Project area

The project is located in villages located in the municipalities of Boussé, Niou, Toéghin and Sourgoubila in the province of Kourwéogo in the region Plateau Central in the centre of Burkina Faso. Almost 94% of the households in the province of Kourwéogo use the traditional stove with woodfuel as energy source. At the same time, Plateau Central, where Kourwéogo is situated, is one of the regions of the country which is severely affected by the shortage of fuelwood. In this area the available resources can only meet 12% of the demand.

Project facts

Project name: VPA-11 – tiipaalga F3PA cookstoves in Kourwéogo

Certification: Gold Standard https://registry.goldstandard.org/projects/details/1400

Project start: 2018

Area: Villages located in the municipalities of Boussé, Niou, Toéghin and Sourgoubila in the province of Kourwéogo.

The project contributes to several global sustainability goals

This project supports multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Here’s a summary of how the goals are met:

SDG 13 – Climate Action

Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through energy-efficient stoves.  It’s a micro-scale project. During the latest monitoring period, 2021, the emission reductions for this project were 10,000 tonnes CO2e.

SDG 1 – No Poverty

According to national statistics more than 46% of the population of the Plateau Central region (with the province of Kourwéogo) can be considered as poor. This project helps reduce extreme poverty by lowering household fuel costs.
Increases access to essential services and resources, including new technologies.

SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being

Reduces indoor air pollution, which contributes to a decrease in illnesses and deaths caused by hazardous air pollution.

100 % of the households perceived that they had less often incidence of coughing, incidence of respiratory illness and incidence of itchy eyes.

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Promotes technical and vocational skills through training in the use and production of energy-efficient stoves.

One training program for staff has taken place and 85 workshops for female project participants.

SDG 5 – Gender Equality

Recognizes and reduces unpaid household labor by making cooking more efficient.

Promotes women’s participation and influence through access to improved technology and economic opportunities.

Empower women by reducing the time and effort needed for firewood collection.

100% of the stove users perceived a reduced amount time spent on wood collection and reduced amount of money spent on wood fuel purchase.

SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy

Ensures increased access to modern, clean, and affordable energy solutions.
Encourages the use of energy-efficient stoves and reduces dependence on firewood as fuel.

SDG 15 – Life on Land

Protects and restores forests by reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.

Our team member Tove Westling ran a successful fashion PR agency in London. Today, she’s dedicated to using her skills to solve the climate crisis. Here are her thoughts on deciding to do a “climate quit”.

When and why did you decide to “climate quit”?

The decision was made around 2016, but I didn’t take the leap until 2020. I already worked in sustainable fashion, but realised that wasn’t enough. I needed to do more good for the world than what the fashion industry allowed me to do at that point.

Describe a specific moment when you realized that you needed to do something different with your life.

My shift toward a more sustainable lifestyle accelerated after I had my son in 2016. I felt a deep urgency to create a better world for him and future generations. But as I made lifestyle changes—some of them extremely challenging—it didn’t feel right to continue in my line of work. While I was working hard to reduce my own consumption, my job’s success depended on encouraging as many people as possible to buy more of my clients’ clothes. The dissonance was something I could no longer live with.

What are you doing now?

Since 2020, I work with marketing and communications at GoClimate.

How does it feel now since you changed your path? 

I feel light. Free. The dissonance is gone, and I feel truly in my element among people who share my values. It feels good to know that my work hours are spent trying to create a better world, alongside people who don’t see me as extreme for choosing the train over the plane or for going entirely plant-based.

What’s your advice to others who want to do the same?

Take your time—don’t rush. Changing careers is a big step, and some parts of it may feel tough initially. You might even lose connections with people who resonated more with who you used to be. So, give yourself space to sit with it, clarify what you truly want, and let your “why” fully sink in. When your reason is deeply rooted, making the leap becomes easier, and you’ll be ready to handle whatever challenges come your way.

A group of neighbors in the village of Duved, in Swedish Jämtland, started a communal garden last year. After a successful first season, where participants inspired each other with new food experiences, they’re now planning to grow even more edible crops this spring. “It’s incredibly stimulating to see things grow,” says Marie Lithén, one of the co-growers.

It all started with a promise to establish allotment gardens in Duved, a project that unfortunately fell through. Instead, a group of villagers decided to come together and create a shared garden.

“From nothing – to something amazing”

Marie Lithén, who’s been growing food her whole life and works as head of the kitchen at Åredalens Folkhögskola, didn’t hesitate for a second when she was invited to join the project.

“In recent years, I’ve been driven by a desire to grow my own food. I mainly live on vegetables. And because freshly harvested produce is such a taste sensation! It’s also incredibly stimulating to see things grow. From nothing to something amazing. It creates so much pride and joy,” says Marie.

Expanding the garden in spring

Right now, 13 people are working together to take care of the 600-square-meter garden, and more are joining. The land they started growing on had been farmed before, which was a big advantage. In 2024, they cultivated about half of the area, so there is plenty of room to dream, says Marie, who envisions even more vegetables, berries, seating areas, and flowers in the future.

What did you grow in the first year?

“Since we got started a bit late in the season, we mostly planted things we already had in our seed boxes or had pre-grown on our balconies—radishes, carrots, beets, lettuce, dill, parsley, summer flowers. We also received a lot of plants from generous people, including kale, black kale, and strawberries.”

“For the next season, we’ve managed to plan a bit better and decided to focus on growing things we actually eat. It’s incredible how easily you can get huge harvests. So it’s best if everyone likes and eats what we grow, even though it’s good to expand your horizons too.”

What positive effects have you seen besides having access to locally grown produce?

“There are so many benefits! Like all the conversations happening between the planting rows. The exchange of experiences. And getting outside in all kinds of weather, realizing that even a light rain can be cozy. Everything also becomes so much easier and faster when working together. For example, we created an entire strawberry patch in just a few hours—that satisfaction is amazing. Several people have also discovered new vegetables to eat.”

“The recipes have been flowing, which is fantastic. Sharing recipes and finding new ways to use the harvest has been a wonderful experience.”

What’s the best way to start a communal garden?

“Talk to the people around you. There are definitely others dreaming of growing food. Join forces. Inspire others. Lead by example. And you can absolutely start growing on your balcony or windowsill while working toward a larger garden. I grow strawberries, potted raspberries, herbs, mushrooms, and lettuce, alongside flowers, on my balcony.”

“Right now, there’s a lot of talk about how more people should start growing food in times of crisis. So go out and start planting! It’s also incredibly climate-smart and provides much more nutrition than store-bought vegetables. Growing is life!”

We spoke to Gurgîn Bakircioglu, activist and influencer, about when he decided to quit his job and dedicate his time to making a better world.

When and why did you decide to “climate quit”?

I decided to “climate quit” back in 2016. Even though my path wasn’t fully clear at the time, I knew I wanted to do something bigger with my life than just working it away as a radio host at Swedish Radio. I quickly found myself drawn to the climate issue when I researched what the greatest challenges of our time were, searching for a meaningful context beyond just jobism.

Describe a specific moment when you realized that you needed to do something else with your life.

I realized it while lying on my brother’s mattress in an unfurnished room, trying to read Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist. Because everyone learns something from The Alchemist. Except me. I wasn’t receptive to anything but bad thoughts, and there was this wobbly desk lamp that had a life of its own. Every time I adjusted it, I had about 30 seconds before I’d have to fix it again. This went on, and the lamp quietly gnawed at me, just like all my other problems. It became a low-intensity battle until I broke down. The lamp triggered me and pushed me over the edge. I cried like a kid.

You know those moments when you finally see the bigger picture? I was 31, sleeping on a mattress in my brother’s room, the only companion willing to share that space with me was the mother of depression. The room had no furniture; it was pure “newly dumped guy” Feng Shui. I loved my job but hated the workplace and the obligation of being there.

I didn’t know what I was doing or what I wanted from life. I was George Costanza. I sold and donated everything I owned, clueless about minimalism. I bought a camper van, knowing nothing about being location-independent. I quit my job, unaware I could live on so little.

Finally, I couldn’t reconcile my conscience any longer and became vegan. Through that, I discovered the climate issue and its connection to justice. It was the best decision of my life: breaking free from the grip of employers, avoiding endless commutes, and joining forces with people to focus on meaningful change instead of chasing the next apartment, the next sofa, or another empty weekend getaway.

How does it feel now since you changed your path?

It feels incredibly meaningful, especially in these times when everything seems to be going in the wrong direction. As an advocate, I know that, no matter what happens politically, at the end of my life, I’ll be able to smile on my deathbed and say, “I gave them hell.”

I built my life around making it harder for them to profit and pushing against their harmful policies.

What’s your advice to others who want to climate quit?

I tend to be radical when I realize something needs to change—I do everything all at once, ripping off the Band-Aid to get started immediately. But I understand that most people need small windows, gradual steps, and encouragement. When I find something I’m convinced is right for people, animals, and nature, and it aligns with the research, I dedicate months to learning everything about it.

My advice? Take it step by step, but once you’re ready, commit fully and build your life around the change.

Talking about climate change can feel both important and challenging. How do you address such a vast topic without making it heavy or leading to conflict? Being brave enough to have the climate conversation with your friends is an important step towards change – small conversations can inspire big actions.

Three tips to start the conversation about climate

1. Ask for advice. If you’re facing a choice or considering refraining from something, share your concerns about what consumption might lead to and ask your friend for their opinion. A simple way to start is: “If you were me, what would you do?” This opens up for an honest and reflective dialogue.
2. Share your own decisions. Tell them you’re considering reducing or stopping certain behaviors, like eating less meat or flying less. Be open about how difficult it feels and how you might grieve the things you’re giving up. When your friend tries to comfort you, saying you don’t need to make the change, stand firm in your decision. Sharing the feeling of loss can strengthen both your own and others’ transition.
3. Explore sacrifices. Ask your friend what they would be willing to give up if there were, for example, a war or a natural disaster. Then use that idea to connect to the climate threat and discuss how we can act together.

These three are some of our favorite tips from the ten-point list in the book Ursäkta mig! by Nina Wormbs and Maria Wolrath Söderberg – simple ways to start important conversations and inspire change.

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Is it really my responsibility?

The debate about individual responsibility in climate issues often centers around whether it’s fair to place responsibility on individuals when the problems actually require systemic changes. At the same time, research shows that we can’t wait for politicians and companies to solve everything. Many of the largest emissions are indirectly affected by our choices, and when we act – both by changing our lifestyles and by influencing others – we create an important foundation for larger changes. Living more sustainably isn’t just about reducing personal emissions, but also about pressuring the system.

Research indicates that the transition happens in the space between individuals and systems. When we as individuals take responsibility, inspire others, and demand action from decision-makers, we contribute to a positive spiral. Changing our lifestyle is a way to show that change is possible, and it also strengthens the credibility of demanding bigger actions from companies and politicians. Just like in other issues, such as wearing face masks during a pandemic, our actions matter – both to influence others and to change societal norms.

“Research shows that the transition happens in the space between individuals and systems.”

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Comparisons

Comparing ourselves to others is a common way to excuse our emissions. It is a human tendency to see ourselves in relation to others, and it can feel comfortable to find someone who is “worse” – for example, another nation or a past version of ourselves. But these comparisons rarely hold up under scrutiny.

An average Swede emits significantly more carbon dioxide than an average Chinese or Indian, even though their countries have larger total emissions due to the size of their populations. Sweden, both as a nation and through our individual emissions, is actually one of the biggest emitters in the world. This is due to our high standard of living and purchasing power – factors linked to prosperity but also to a large climate responsibility.

It’s easy to feel small and insignificant in the big global picture, but it’s a mistake to reduce our own influence. Together, we form groups and movements that drive change. Changing our behavior is not only about reducing emissions but also about living with self-respect and integrity. Many who have taken the step see themselves as responsible citizens who want to do the right thing, both for the planet and for future generations. When we act and take responsibility, we also strengthen our credibility in international contexts – we cannot demand that other countries act if we do not do so ourselves.

“An average Swede emits significantly more carbon dioxide than an average Chinese or Indian, even though their countries have larger total emissions due to the size of their populations.”

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Practical barriers

We often use practical barriers as excuses to avoid sustainable choices, such as lack of time, long distances, or difficulties in finding alternative transport options. Many feel trapped in circumstances where they don’t have time to choose the train over flying, or where the car feels easier than public transport. These barriers are often presented as inevitable, which leads us to see ourselves as victims rather than responsible in the climate issue.

Economic arguments also defend unsustainable choices. Sustainable products like organic goods and electric cars are perceived as expensive, and a societal system that doesn’t favor climate-smart choices reinforces the image of sustainability as a luxury. For example, flying is cheaper than taking the train and often tax-exempt, creating distorted competition and making sustainable choices appear economically out of reach for many.

Choosing the practical over the comfortable is something we can do together to create change, especially when it comes to climate-friendly choices like traveling by train in Europe – even though it can be trickier to book and take longer. By making such choices, we help create demand that drives better solutions, something that is already starting to happen with train travel. It can also feel satisfying to know that your choices are contributing to a larger transition.

For the practical to feel like a good reason to change, we need to agree that the benefit for the climate outweighs other concerns. At the same time, our actions shape norms for what is acceptable, often through small things like nodding in agreement or liking something on social media. But transitioning is rarely something done completely alone – we influence each other. The view of economics is also changing: for those who prioritize the Earth’s resources, economics is more about managing the planet’s assets than saving money. Sustainable alternatives may feel more expensive, but the unsustainable ones are often cheaper just because they are subsidized at the expense of the environment. At the same time, there are many who cannot afford sustainable choices, but for most of us, it is those of us who can make different choices who must take responsibility.

“Changing habits is hard – it can be tough and require sacrifices – but with support from others, it often becomes both easier and more meaningful.”

Hermes Group, with over 16 years of experience in event management, has always aimed not just to create successful events, but also to have a positive impact on people and the environment. The company was founded with a vision that entrepreneurship means more than just running a business – it’s about making a difference in the world.

Sustainability has always been a central part of Hermes Group’s operations. Anna Hermes, who founded the company, runs the business today together with Vianei Hermes. Both have a strong connection to nature; Anna from Småland, Sweden, and Vianei from rural Brazil. Their shared interest in living in harmony with nature and striving to improve people’s well-being has shaped the company’s sustainability efforts.

“We realized early on how strongly an event can impact both people and the planet, both positively and negatively,” Anna says.

Key factors for sustainable events

Over time, Hermes Group has identified the factors that are crucial for creating sustainable events and corporate travel. By making well-informed decisions from the planning stage, they ensure that every event has a positive impact. For instance, they choose destinations that can be reached with low or no emissions, prioritize local and sustainable suppliers, and advocate for physical activities in nature. Food choices are also central, focusing on locally produced, organic, and seasonal ingredients.

Another important aspect of Hermes Group’s work is spreading knowledge and inspiring clients who are not yet engaged in sustainability. Anna explains that they always start by raising awareness about carbon emissions and suggesting alternative ways to travel and organize events.

“We show the difference, often in the form of CO2 emission estimates. For example, we might suggest replacing red meat with more sustainable options or swapping a speedboat tour for kayaking,” she says.

The event industry faces several challenges when it comes to sustainability, and one of the biggest is the lack of knowledge. Anna believes that if companies knew more about sustainability, it would be easier to implement more sustainable events. Another challenge is the traditional ways in which many events are still organized, something Hermes Group wants to change.

“The best thing for us is when sustainability starts from within”

An example of how Hermes Group has successfully made an event more sustainable is when they replaced a 4-hour flight to Athens with a 2-hour bus ride to Dalarna. This change resulted in a reduction of 75 tons of CO2 emissions. Hermes Group worked closely with the client, who also wanted to raise awareness about sustainability among their employees. Meetings were held outdoors, with the forest and lake as the workplace. Local food from the farm was served in a beautiful greenhouse, followed by a party in the barn. Employees also attended a one-hour talk on the planetary boundaries and what has led us to the climate crisis we are in. Additionally, the event overall delivered a cheaper, more economically sustainable outcome.

“The best thing for us is when sustainability starts from within. For us, it’s a true passion and it has an immediate effect,” Anna concludes.

Learn more about Hermes Group.