Charcoal Potential in Southern Africa

Additional objectives were to identify indicators of over-exploitation, and to increase the understanding of the reasons for charcoal production. The time scope was the last decade of the previous century.

Activities
The research framework and areas of study were defined. Ecological potential for charcoal production for three cities was assessed at sample plot locations. Land cover changes was assessed based on satellite images. Assessment of the spatial dynamics and a socioeconomic analysis of the charcoal production system was assessed through surveys. A model for the charcoal system was developed.

Methodologies
The methods used in the project include remote sensing analysis, field surveys, participatory appraisals, computer modeling, scenario building and evaluation.

Results
The results show that around all three major cities, woodland cover has been reduced during the study period, partly due to charcoal production, partly due to increased cultivation. Cleared areas can regenerate into woodlands or continue to be degraded, depending on management regimes. The potential for charcoal production from most of these areas will be substantially reduced in the coming 15 years if no measures are implemented.

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