Comparative Analysis of Alternative Energy Adoption among Women in Rural and Urban Areas of Imo State: Implications for Women in Science and SDG 7

Abstract

This study investigated cooking fuel preferences among women in rural and urban sectors of Imo State, Nigeria. The aim of the study is to assess the use of cooking stove by women in the urban and rural areas of Imo state and to use the data obtained to check the progress toward Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 in the state. Utilizing a survey research design, data were collected via questionnaires and oral interviews from 100 respondents, comprising of 50 women from World Bank Estate, Owerri (Urban) and 50 women from Ogbor Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise (Rural). The results indicated that in urban areas, 16% of respondents exclusively use Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), while 12% rely on kerosene. Conversely, rural areas show a heavy dependence on biomass, with 14% using firewood exclusively, 15% employing a firewood-kerosene mix and 3% exclusively used gas in the rural area. From the findings, while urban women are transitioning toward cleaner fuels, rural women remain tethered to solid fuels due to availability, finance and cultural perceptions. The study recommends intensified environmental education from women in science and policy interventions from concerned quarters to reduce indoor air pollution and curb deforestation.