Black gold — the real cost of charcoal in Africa
Originally published February 2016
Rapid urbanisation in Africa has a direct impact on the demand for charcoal. Research shows that a 1% rise in urbanisation can increase charcoal consumption by 14%. The continent has experienced the highest urban growth in the last two decades and is set to continue, intensifying the proliferation of slums, urban poverty and rising inequality. Charcoal is a primary need for food preparation and fuel, and can provide the opportunity to earn an income. The impact on woodland areas and forests is less positive — in Zambia, an estimated 250,000–300,000 hectares of forest per annum is lost to meet demand.
The production, transportation and distribution of charcoal is largely unregulated and is one of the most commercialised resources in sub-Saharan Africa, where 90% of the population depend on firewood and charcoal for cooking. As a preferred fuel to wood — it doesn’t produce smoke, is easier to transport, and is bought ready to use — the industry is big.
The production of charcoal involves heating wood in makeshift kilns and reducing it to its primary carbon form. The process releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that traps the sun’s rays and prevents heat from leaving the atmosphere, and causes the earth’s temperature to increase.
Degradation and deforestation lead to loss of carbon from soil, and further burning of charcoal releases stored carbon into the atmosphere.
Development agencies and governments throughout Africa are addressing the mainstream use of charcoal by developing accessible and sustainable energy sources. However, charcoal still remains a huge and very important source of energy for the majority of households. As a result, some countries are trying to better regulate the industry; however the informal sector remains vast.
Deforestation and degradation are causing negative impacts on the environment and the societies that live within them. Erosion results in reduced soil fertility and sediment deposition in streams and rivers, causing an increased threat of flooding. Deep drainage is diminished and boreholes, which many communities depend on for fresh water, risk drying up. As a result, the threat of drought increases. Charcoal, as well a number of other factors such as agricultural expansion, have led to significant increases in deforestation and degradation.
Well-managed forests can be a sustainable source of charcoal, and a viable long-term energy source for urban populations. However, the charcoal value chain is complex. From producer to retailer, there are vested economic and political interests. In order to create a sustainable source of energy, dialogue is needed at each stage, including with the users themselves. Engagement needs to happen at multiple levels, from local to national government, and across sectors.
Working with, not against, the charcoal industry will be the only effective way of managing the impact of charcoal and deforestation. Working with governments to develop national energy policies with commercial partners to pursue sustainable forestry strategies and those in the value chain is a start.
This article was originally published by Adam Smith International in February 2016.