Energy as it relates to Poverty Alleviation and Environmental Protection (UNDP, 1998, 36 p.)

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Poverty and Environment Initiative Publications

Preface

Introduction

Key Energy Issues as They Relate to Poverty and Environment

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Inefficient and environmentally harmful energy use

First-cost effect generates poverty-energy-environment lock-in

For the poorest of the poor, small improvements in commercial energy services produce large welfare benefits

Conventional energy paradigm contributes to perpetuation of poverty

Environmental problems such as urban air pollution and climate change affect people living in poverty more directly due to current patterns of energy usage

Urban air pollution

Climate Change

Inordinate expenditure on energy

Designing Sustainable Energy1 Policies for Poverty Alleviation and Environmental Protection

Remaining Challenges

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Subsidies for conventional fuels distort the markets

Pricing does not reflect externalities

Theft and pilferage

Outmoded policy

Lack of coordination in decision-making

Lobbies supporting conventional energy

Lack of information

Lack of skills

Lack of initiative

Examples of Sustainable Energy Strategies that Simultaneously Address Poverty and Environment Concerns

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Improved cookstoves and modern fuels

Rural electrification - decentralised options

Improved urban transportation

Modernised biomass

Conclusions

References