Rural Women’s Experiences and Motivations in Charcoal Production and Trade in Ghana
摘要
This chapter critically looks at the motivations, barriers, and benefits of commercial charcoal production as a livelihood option for rural women in Ghana. It situates these experiences within the lens of ecofeminist theory. The chapter employs a systematic review of 13 peer-reviewed research articles identified across Academic Search Complete, ProQuest Central, Taylor and Francis Online, and Google Scholar. Findings reveal a growing participation of rural Ghanaian women in the lower echelons of the charcoal value chain, driven by financial necessities, limited alternative income streams, and the need to build resilience against economic vulnerabilities. The analysis underscores a significant gendered disparity, with women consistently generating lower incomes compared to men. These are compounded by barriers such as restricted access to credit and the arduous nature of production. Such limitations not only perpetuate economic inequalities but also hinder the adoption of more sustainable production methods crucial for mitigating environmental impacts. The chapter thus argues for a multi-pronged approach that empowers women charcoal producers through collective action that enables them to improve their economic standing and advocate for sustainable practices. It further emphasizes the need for governmental and financial institutions to prioritize gender-sensitive interventions that facilitate women’s access to financial resources and sustainable production training. Support such as these are essential to reconcile women’s livelihood needs with environmental protection goals. Such support will thus ensure a more equitable and environmentally responsible charcoal sector in the face of intensifying climate change pressures.