EFFECTS OF HOUSEHOLD BIOMASS FUEL CONSUMPTION ON VEGETATION IN SISSALA EAST MUNICIPAL OF THE UPPER WEST REGION

Abstract

Charcoal and fuel wood constitute the primary source of energy in developing countries. In Ghana, fire wood and charcoal are primarily collected from forest and savannah wood land. As population increases, pressure on the forest and wood land increase, leading to over exploitation and deforestation. Using a mixed- method approach, this study examined the implications of households’ biomass consumption on deforestation in the Sissala East Municipal of Ghana. In particular, desk reviews, household survey, focus group and key informant interviews were employed to collect data among a cross-section of population in six (6) rural and urban communities. The study found that the primary source of energy for most households in the study area remains fire wood, which is mainly collected from forest, farm and the open savannah wood land. Furthermore, the study found that the use of firewood has severe consequences on the environment and health of the users, especially women. This is because they are more close to inhaling the smoke from cooking activities than men. The research further established that the most preferred alternative energy for households is LPG but the major factor hindering access is its affordability. Based on the research findings, the study concluded that continuous collection of fire wood poses a serious challenge for environmental sustainability. The study therefore recommended that, the ministry of agriculture, through the forestry commission should among other things institute education and sensitization programs to educate households on sustainable collection of wood fuel. Aside, the government should also initiate subsidy p1rograms to support households, especially rural population to be able to afford improved energy stoves as a way of reducing dependency on fuel wood. Key words: Fuel Wood, Households, Charcoal, LPG and Sustainability