BOKU Climate Mitigation Projects

Small-scale biogas plants instead of deforestation and erosion

This BOKU climate protection project reduces CO2-emissions through the use of biogas plants. Increased cooking on open fires leads to heavy over-exploitation of forests, the release of hazardous carbon compounds and soil erosion. The purchase of charcoal and firewood is increasingly becoming an economic burden for the local population. The construction of small biogas plants and their proper commissioning offers an alternative and energy-efficient cooking option.

Strengthening of the community through solidarity implementation

The joint organization of the introduction of animal manure and the distribution of gas and fermentation residue (fertilizer) strengthens the sustainable development of the area. The bio-gas plants are based on a collaborative approach, in which households with more animals support households with fewer animals by introducing more animal manure into the plants. The produced bio-gas and fertilizer are distributed to the respective households in solidarity.

Seedlings and training courses flank the project

Households are provided with gas stoves and training as part of the project. They are also given seedlings so that they can use the fertilizer produced immediately. The scientific support of the project is provided by BOKU and the University of Gulu and offers research opportunities to students and young scientists. Thus, this BOKU project not only makes a significant contribution to climate change mitigation and adaptation but also improves the living situation in Uganda through co-benefits.
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Community Biogas Plants in Gulu / Uganda

Emissions Reduction18.000 t CO2-eq in 6 years

Project DurationStart 2020, duration of 6 years

Project Costs703.200 €

Costs per Tonne of CO219,5 €

SITUATION WITHOUT THE PROJECTDeforestation of forest areas, CO2 emissions from the use of firewoord and charcoal, and health hazards from fuel gasses

GoalConstruction of 200 bio-gas plants for a total of 800 households and schools, and an increase in food production.

Project DeveloperCaritas Carinthia, IFA - Institute for Environmental Biotechnology (from BOKU), Caritas Gulu and Gulu University, Uganda

Co-financing Partners and (other) PartnersCaritas Upper Austria, Bruder und Schwester in Not Innsbruck (BSIN), Missio

Accompanying research
  • Increasing the efficiency of biogas household systems below 30°C
  • Investigation of energy self-sufficiency systems in countries of the Global South