sources of energy (solar panels and wind energy electric generations in three pilot areas)
have been piloted. Wind energy survey has been accomplished in 25 catchments areas and
316 cities and villages. Recently plans are on progress to move to modest alternative source
of energy measures to be implemented in the next 2- 3 years. The Areza-Maidima Solar PV
Mini Grid Project (in south-western Eritrea) is a model to be constructed in the near future.
373.
In the TPES, 77.8 %, 14.9%, 4.8 % and only 2.4 % was consumed by the household,
transport, public and commercial, and the industrial sectors respectively. Hence, other steps
are taken in consideration of environmental security and include the expansion of the use of
liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and kerosene. Road transport connectivity by roads and other
means of transport also increase their impact on the environment. Hence, introduction of
efficient public transport system, particularly in urban centres, regulatory frames that would
ban old cars and the introduction of efficient vehicles using catalysers have been important
measures. But these are areas where still strong and concrete measures are needed
considering their heavy effects on the environment and safety.
374.
The high use of biomass fuel with a low efficiency of less than 10% and multiple of
negative effects is also a major challenge in environment security and safety. The distance
covered to fetch fuel wood supply for 5-7 days is about 10 kms. It has a great deal of effect
on the social role, opportunities and health and safety of women and girls. The Adhanet
which is an improvised traditional stove has been an innovative solution to tackle the
problem. It has so far been installed in over 100,000 households. The stove has improved
efficiency by over 20% and saved fuel wood consumption by 50%. Furthermore, cooking
has become healthier by completely eliminating indoor smoke pollution. Experts also
estimate that it reduces C02 emission by 0.6 tons/household/year.The stove has thus gained
international reputation by the Ashden Award in 2003 and 2009 for innovation in clean
energy technology and in the Osaka Expo 2004. In this respect, a target has been set to reach
343,600 Eritrean households (about 50%) in the next decade. The annual biomass savings is
expected to be from 150,000 to 300,000 tons of avoided biomass consumption.
375.
Recently, Eritrea also embarked in the production of minerals. A stringent environmental
management regime has been enforced as per the mining law and the environment
management regulations to ensure environmental security. Hence, an inbuilt responsibility in
mining investment, regulations for ensuring protection of the environment and sound
principles of resource management and land use are upheld. The concern on the million
tonnes of waste soil contaminated with heavy metals likely to be generated is also mitigated.
Corporate social responsibility Reports executed by International Lawyers and
environmental experts have also asserted this truth.
(v)
Sustaining the Environment and Waste Disposal and Recycling
376.
This is an area which has not progressed significantly and challenges are many.
Nevertheless, extensive campaigns and activities of modifying behaviour and waste
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