Assessment of environmental impacts of charcoal production in Gummi Local Government Area, Zamfara State, Nigeria

Abstract

Despite the challenging environmental problems such as drought and desertification phenomenon facing northern Nigeria particularly the eleven frontline states, unsustainable harvesting of trees for domestic cooking fuel is alarming and it may exacerbate deforestation and many environmental problems. A survey was conducted where 88 charcoal producers were identified, selected, and administered with a semi-structured questionnaire in some charcoal-producing villages in Gummi Local Government Area, Zamfara State. Information collected include charcoal-producing areas, the most preferred trees for charcoal production, charcoal production procedures monthly income of the producers, problems encountered, and impacts of charcoal production on the environment. The data collected were analyzed using Descriptive and Inferential Statistics. The study found that 100% of the respondents were males and 34.40% were married. Majority of charcoal producers (68.18%) had no formal education. The findings revealed that charcoal production is a profitable business because, on monthly basis, 41% of the producers averagely earn up to the national minimum wage (₦29,000-₦38,000). Chi-square test was used to assess charcoal producer’s educational qualification and their awareness of environmental changes. The results revealed a highly significant relationship χ (4) = 13.600a, and P ≤ 0.001. Although charcoal production serves as a source of livelihood for teaming youths, however, indiscriminate felling of trees in these areas with already depleted forest resources should therefore be strictly regulated.