Energy conservation in boarding schools: A case of Thika District

Abstract

The Kenyan Economy relies heavily on the country's natural resources both in terms of people's livelihoods and as a contribution to national income. The exploitation and competition for limited natural resources continue to jeopardize the state of the environment mainly due to unplanned and unsustainable utilization. Energy fuels economic growth and is therefore a key concern both in developed and developing countries. However, most current energy generation and use are accompanied by environmental impacts that threaten human well being now and in the future.

The objective of this study was to investigate energy use and conservation. Specifically it investigated energy sources and types, energy conservation, associated environmental impacts, awareness, health and safety in schools. It also covered improved cook stoves, land use change and forestry, emerging environmental issues such as global warming and climate change. All the 47 boarding schools in the district formed the study sample. The study questionnaire was sent to all schools. 17 the schools responded. Both primary data using questionnaires, key informants and field observations and secondary data from library books, journals, projects reports, Internet and maps was collected. The data was analyzed using qualitative techniques. The study found out that all schools use fuelwood as the main source of energy.

Other energy types include electricity, kerosene, Liquidified Petroleum Gas (LPG) and biogas. Further, there are some efforts being put into energy conservation for all schools. Training on energy conservation among school heads is below average. There is a relatively high level of awareness on global environmental issues such as global warming and climate change. Finally, the study recommended development of fuelwood Strategy and Action Plan for sustainable fuelwood production and consumption, promotion of energy conservation and efficiency through education and awareness. Other recommendations were the use of other renewable energies to reduce dependence on fuelwood, elevation of energy conservation to a department and development of energy conservation legislation. The study also recommends further research aimed at reducing energy costs and budgets, and enhancing understanding of climate and its variability including extreme weather events.