A group of Canadians is working with locals in Nicaragua to replace traditional wood-burning stoves with more efficient, cleaner-burning models that are better for the climate and the families who rely on them.
“Most of the Central American countries are struggling a bit,” said Douglas Thompson, a retired doctor and a volunteer for The Canadian Outreach Medical and Multi Impact Team (COMMIT), based in Stratford, Ont.
“Most of the energy source there is fossil fuel. Their electric grid doesn’t extend well into the rural areas as well. So there’s a challenge. And for the most part, cooking is done on an open