Realising SDG 7 and beyond : exploring the role of personal social networks via a systems-level approach in the sustained adoption of LPG in India

Abstract

Globally, about 2.4 billion people lack access to clean cooking fuels and technologies, leading to approximately 3.2 million premature deaths annually and delays to the progression of multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Cooking with solid fuels is a three-pronged issue, with negative ramifications on the environment, health, and women. India embarked on the ambitious Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana in 2016, with the aim to facilitate a widespread transition towards LPG as a clean cooking fuel. While the policy measure has been successful in expanding the penetration of LPG in millions of Indian households, sustained usage of LPG has been a challenge. While issues relating to the affordability and accessibility of LPG present significant barriers to sustained usage, the role of behaviour and its cross-cutting relevance across different systemic and socio ecological levels has remained largely unexplored. This study explores the role of personal social networks in facilitating the clean cooking energy transition via a systems-level approach to inform community-based clean cooking energy interventions. Primary fieldwork across urban slums in New Delhi, India, inform the findings and policy recommendations of this research.