Background
Haiti has faced significant climate challenges in recent decades, characterized by rising temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and more intense extreme weather events. The country has experienced prolonged droughts that strain water resources, disrupt agriculture, and force communities to travel long distances for essential needs. Additionally, Haiti’s vulnerability is heightened by its location in the path of tropical cyclones, which have caused widespread destruction and loss of livelihoods. Environmental degradation, including deforestation and poor waste management, has further exacerbated these issues, leading to soil erosion, sediment buildup in rivers, and frequent flooding in low-lying areas.
In response, efforts to build resilience have included reforestation initiatives and the development of biodigesters as a sustainable energy solution. While reforestation projects have had limited impact in highly degraded mountainous regions, biodigesters offer a practical and locally adaptable approach to address environmental and energy challenges. A pilot programme aims to refine this technology and explore its use for combined cooking and lighting systems, aligning with Haiti’s economic realities and promoting long-term environmental sustainability.
CTCN support
The Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) will support the pilot of an inflatable biodigester in Fessard, Kenscoff, Haiti. The project aims to improve organic waste management, focusing on women, youth, and vulnerable populations. The CTCN will assist in assessing the commune’s agricultural practices and technological needs to tailor the solution to local conditions. Additionally, CTCN will facilitate capacity-building by training the community on biodigester use and biogas generation, empowering them with sustainable practices. This technical assistance project will also explore the potential for developing a local market for inflatable biodigesters, ensuring long-term economic and environmental benefits.