Environmental research

Agro Montanha is a rural community in S o Louren o dos rg os Municipality in Santiago Island, the largest on the archipelago. The local economy is based on small farming agriculture, and therefore the main source of families income. Water availability for irrigation has been one of the major issues the community faces. Water is expensive and difficult to mobilize. Water for irrigation comes from two community wells. The wells are equipped with gas run pumps, which in turn, and through networks sends water to each farm land. This process is taking its financial toll on community, because of increases on fuel prices. Evidently the local association understands that there is also an issue with Co2 emissions, but also comprehends that a change needs to take place. This change is clearly attached to being aware of the impact the cost of energy is having on farmers, as well as the level of awareness of energy efficiency and Co2 emissions. The combination of these benefits into a single project, which aim to improve the living conditions of poor farmers, while promoting energy efficiency, using renewable energy is the main objective of this project.

Cape verde