SAVING THE PLANET THROUGH PIG WASTE
Before joining ANF’s Anaerobic Digestion Project in partnership with Food for the Poor, Maritza Reyes from Somoto, Nicaragua, would depend on fuelwood to cook food for her family—one of many human activities contributing to deforestation in rural areas.
“LIFE IS DIFFICULT FOR MOST WOMEN HERE. WE SPEND HOURS FETCHING FIREWOOD… THERE IS LITTLE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE RISKS AND VERY FEW OPPORTUNITIES.”
—MARTIZA REYES
Through the Project, Maritza has been able to construct a new pig pen and harness the power of pig waste through a recently donated bio-digester—a standalone system that transforms organic waste into cooking gas. Today, Maritza is able to save time and reduce family health risks due to indoor pollution from smoke, all while helping prevent deforestation.
“I HAD ALWAYS WANTED TO RAISE PIGS, BUT NEVER IMAGINED ALL THE THINGS I COULD GAIN FROM IT! I HAVE LEARNED A LOT AND FEEL LIKE I CAN REALLY MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MYSELF, MY FAMILY, AND OTHERS.”
Without a doubt, the world needs more change-makers like Maritza. If you would like to empower rural women in Nicaragua, make a donation today.