INTERVENTIONS
The use of biomass fuels in developing countries is likely to remain stable or even increase in the near future,
as few rural families can afford a fuel that is higher on the energy ladder, such as liquefied petroleum gas or electricity, which are cleaner but more expensive. Also, for cultural reasons, the combined use of biomass with modern fuels is widespread, according to a ‘multiple fuel model’ of development.37 One approach to reduce the health burden related to biomass fuel has been the provision of low-cost, improved wood-burning stoves in rural areas of developing countries.14 These relatively simple and costeffi cient technologies can double the energy efficiency
of their ‘traditional’ counterparts and reduce indoor pollution. Factors determining the success of these interventions
and long-term use in the community involve complex interactions of technological, behavioral, economic, and infrastructural factors. Empirical research may provide technological interventions that