New data from Aston University researchers could improve how Uganda uses its stocks of biomass.
Experts at the University's Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute have been mapping forest biomass - renewable organic material that comes from plants and animals – and its availability and community-level energy demand.
As a result, they have identified areas where demand exceeds supply, where it is balanced or where there is a surplus. This information helps pinpoint where interventions such as tree planting or cooking methods that use cleaner fuels and more efficient stoves are most urgently needed instead of applying the existing one-size-fits-all approach.
Currently in Uganda existing statistics or research methods use data aggregated at a national level. However, the Aston University researchers have developed a real-time dashboard for monitoring biomass, carbon stocks and energy demand at a local level. This allows them to produce more accurate estimates of biomass stocks specific for each community rather than relying on country-wide averages.
EBRI researcher Dan Abudu presented the findings at the conference held in the Ugandan capital Kampala in July.
He said: "Our approach has enabled us to recommend targeted interventions rather than relying on generalised, country-wide solutions. This kind of targeting can help avoid wasting money on interventions in areas that may not need them or are already managing well.
"Over time, this could save millions of Uganda shillings by preventing deforestation and reducing the cost of future energy crises. While we have not quantified the exact financial savings yet, better data means smarter decisions and more efficient use of limited resources."
The event hosted by the Ugandan Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development brought together global representatives to discuss current trends, future opportunities and challenges of bioenergy development in Africa. The University's research impact fund which aims to help shape regional strategies across the continent provided support so the University could co-organise the week's flagship event.
The research team has since met with Uganda's Ministry of Energy and the East African Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Efficiency (EACREEE) which asked them to contribute to their baseline strategy meeting on regional clean energy transition.
Dan added: "We've also had interest from Stockholm Environmental Institute (SEI) who are advising Uganda's government on clean cooking and have expressed interests in our models and data outputs.
"Our research aligns well with Uganda's Parish Development Model, which aims to drive development from the grassroots. Our analysis helps align forest and energy planning with this model, ensuring that resources, technologies and support are directed where they are needed most.
"We hope our research may soon influence not just local planning in Uganda, but also wider East African strategies around sustainable energy and forest management."
