In many rural households, traditional wood-burning stoves are still used for daily cooking, which generates high levels of indoor air pollution and represents a serious risk to health, especially for women and children. This project seeks to reduce these risks by promoting cleaner cooking alternatives and better ventilation practices. The project is carried out in collaboration with institutions and government agencies of the State of Michoacán, through the Institute of Training for Work of the State of Michoacán (ICATMI). With the support of international volunteers, the project not only focuses on the physical installation of the stoves, but also on raising awareness about their correct use, maintenance, and the environmental and health benefits they provide. Participating in this project offers volunteers the opportunity to contribute directly to community well-being, environmental sustainability, and public health improvement, while gaining meaningful cultural exchange experiences in rural Mexico.
ACTIVITIES
Volunteers will actively participate in the installation and community engagement process related to the ecological stoves. Activities include:
1. Receiving and participating in training sessions on the use and installation of the EEEAL.
2.Traveling to selected communities to assist with the installation of the ecological stoves in local households.
3.Explaining to community members the importance of using EEEAL instead of traditional open-fire stoves (fogones), highlighting health and environmental benefits.
4.Sharing and reinforcing the information obtained during the previous training with families and community members.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD
Volunteers will be accommodated in a shared house together with other international volunteers. Basic facilities such as electricity, water, bathrooms, and a common living area will be available. Food will be provided for the volunteers in the form of basic ingredients and supplies. Volunteers will be responsible for preparing and cooking their own meals.
LOCATION
Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacán in Mexico, is a historically and culturally rich city. Founded in the 16th century, Morelia is known for its impressive colonial architecture, including numerous Baroque and Neoclassical buildings, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is also famous for its vibrant cultural life, which includes music festivals, theater, and cinema. Additionally, Morelia is renowned for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as tamales, corundas, and carnitas.
LASURETIME
Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacán, offers a variety of activities for all tastes: Exploration of the Historic Center and admire the colonial architecture of the Cathedral and historic buildings. Visit the Alfredo Zalce Contemporary Art Museum and the Crafts House. Tasting of Local Gastronomy
WHERETOARRIVE
Closest bus station: Terminal de Autobuses Morelia. Closest international airport: Aeropuerto Internacional General Francisco Mujica. Other international airports: Mexico City International Airport, Guadalajara International Airport.
SPECIALREQUIREMENTS
This camp is open to everyone who is sensible and open-minded. It is crucial for the participants to respect, open to learning and appreciate the conditions of a different culture. • Camp language: English (Spanish is appreciated but not mandatory!) • Vegetarian food available: Yes • Open for families: Yes • Open for disabled volunteers: No
EXTRAFEE
The participation fee for this project is of 70 Euros. The fee includes food, hosting, necessary materials and local transportation for work activities. It should be paid in cash in Mexican pesos on the first day of the project. The volunteers will be informed about the fee in pesos one week before the start of the project.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Project name: Clean and sustainable Household Cooking Energy Project