In the present situation, the rising cost and irregular availability of LPG have become a concern for many small hotels and roadside eateries. As a result, several of them are already shifting partially or fully to firewood for cooking. While this helps in managing expenses, it also increases pressure on wood resources.
At the same time, in our cities, we see large quantities of dry leaves lying unused on roadsides, especially during certain seasons. These leaves are usually treated as waste and often burnt or left to decay. This made me think: can this readily available material be used as a supplementary fuel for small hotels?
Dry leaves are easy to collect and do not involve cutting trees. If organized properly, their use could reduce dependence on firewood and also help in keeping our surroundings clean. However, it is also true that burning leaves directly can produce more smoke, which is not desirable in urban areas.
Therefore, the idea may be more practical if refined. Instead of direct burning, leaves could be processed into compact forms such as briquettes or used in improved stoves designed for better combustion and reduced smoke.
The intention here is not to suggest an immediate replacement for LPG, but to explore a small, locally available alternative during times of constraint. With proper methods, what is now seen as waste might become a useful resource.
This is a thought in progress. Suggestions are welcome.