Carbon credits help farmers in Kenya

A little credit can go a long way when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, says a volunteer with Farmers Helping Farmers.
Ian Dohoo said while the best solution to reduce emissions is to eliminate major contributing factors, such as air travel and heating oil, it's an unrealistic goal.
Instead, he's working with Farmers Helping Farmers on a carbon credit program, where consumers pay to offset the effects of their ecological footprint. That money then goes to programs in Kenya that reduce emissions by updating technology.
Credits cost $15 per ton of emissions and go towards the purchase of biogas generators for farmers in Kenya. The generators convert manure to compost, which can be used on farmland.
During the composting process, methane gas is released from the compost, which is then used in a gas cooker, he said.
The conversion to the methane stove from a traditional wood stove means less greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere.
It also saves the day a week it takes to collect firewood, he said.
"It falls to women to do this," he said.
Women are the primary farmers in Kenya, so the extra day gives them more time to work their crops, he said. The generators cost about $500 to install, part of which is paid for by the farmers. They last roughly 15 years.
Dohoo said carbon credits are an excellent way to take an active approach to global warming.
"It gives Islanders and opportunity to take personal action on climate change."