Assessment of cooking technologies in energy transition: impacts on pollutant concentrations

The use of firewood in rudimentary stoves remains common in several regions worldwide, including Brazil, leading to high exposure to pollutants. A viable alternative is replacing these stoves with improved models or transitioning to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This study aimed to evaluate real-time exposure levels to PM₁₀, PM_2.5, CO₂, and HCHO in kitchens using rudimentary, Eco-Efficient, and LPG stoves. Additionally, we discuss energy transition based on Brazilian household fuel use. This study contributes to the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs, SDG3, SDG7, and SDG13), by highlighting the health and environmental benefits of cleaner household energy solutions. The results showed that mean 8-h PM concentrations were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in houses with rudimentary stoves (210 ± 284 µg m^-3 for PM₁₀ and 118 ± 213 µg m^-3 for PM_2.5) compared to Eco-Efficient (64 ± 162 µg m^-3 for PM₁₀ and 50 ± 284 µg m^-3 for PM_2.5) and LPG stoves (20 ± 21 µg m^-3 for PM₁₀ and 10 ± 14 µg m^-3 for PM_2.5). Formaldehyde concentrations were also higher in kitchens using rudimentary stoves. CO₂ levels were statistically similar across stove types. The Eco-Efficient stove represents a promising alternative, reducing both pollution and firewood consumption, especially for rural communities reliant on biomass. However, LPG remains the preferred option due to its broad distribution and lower emissions. Successful energy transition will require government financial support for low-income households and increased investment in renewable technologies to minimize dependence on fossil fuels.