Projects: Haiti - 05 • Mali - 08 - 09 • Bolivia - 07 - 09
Kyoto Twist Project Model
The Kyoto Twist seeks both private and public sector funding to purchase solar cookers and support training programs for the benefit of families in countries where there is a need to alleviate the problems caused by the shortage or high cost of cooking fuel. Donations to the KyotoTwist provide families with training and a solar cooker. Contributions can be made online and are tax deductible in Canada. Click on the CanadaHelps icon.
The Kyoto Twist works with NGOs who have solar cooker experience and a proven track record in countries where solar cookers are an appropriate technology in terms of location, culture, and need.
Here’s how it works. An NGO applies for funding from the Kyoto Twist, using the “Application Packet” developed especially for this purpose. They specify how they will structure and carry out their project, how they will select the families, how they will carry out the training, and how they will follow up and support the users.
Our project model and application process is designed to avoid the common pitfalls of such projects and is gleaned from the cumulative experience of the solar cooker movement worldwide. Careful selection of the families receiving the training and cookers, the presence of a peer support network and essential follow-up are just a few of the conditions we know are important to the success of domestic solar cooking projects and we screen for them in our application process.
Once an application is reviewed and approved by the Kyoto Twist Board of Directors, a contract is drawn between the NGO and the Kyoto Twist Solar Cooking Society. The NGO can apply to receive cookers, which the Kyoto Twist will purchase and ship or receive funds to purchase or build the cookers in country. The Kyoto Twist does not promote any particular model of solar cooker. The experienced groups we partner with have already developed or chosen the appropriate cookers and accessories for their area and conditions.
Funding is dispersed in three or more payments as the phases of the project are completed. Our documentation procedures are well defined, because we intend to track the success of the recipient families, their financial savings with their solar cookers, and their greenhouse gas emission reductions. Accountability to our contributors is a paramount concern. Project tracking and follow-up are built into our criteria for funding.
For more details on our project model, our procedures, or to receive an “Application Packet” please contact us by mail or email. To find out more about solar cookers and projects around the world, go to our resources section for links to related information.
Save a tonne, Save a life.
