Improving Charcoaling Efficiency in the Traditional Rural Sector

Burgeoning urban populations and incessant rural land clearing threaten the sustainability of supply of charcoal, the principal urban cooking fuel of sub-Saharan Africa and much of the Third World. Supply efficiency improvements, such as the promotion of improved charcoal kilns, are one option to reduce urban household energy supply pressures. However, a major conclusion derived from a review of international experience is that technical interventions alone are insufficient, especially if introduced in the absence of an adequate incentive framework. The paper thus also discusses complementary supply enhancement measures, and recommends institution of community-based natural forest management schemes financed through user fees and taxes.