Socio-Ecological Analysis of Fuelwood Consumption Patterns in Kirtinagar Block, Tehri Garhwal: Insights for Achieving Sustainable Energy Solutions
摘要
The reliance on fuelwood as a primary energy source in rural areas has profound implications for both the environment and human well-being. This research explores the complex interplay of socio-ecological factors influencing fuelwood consumption patterns in selected villages within the Tehri Garhwal District of Uttarakhand, India. The study highlights the significance of local context in understanding fuelwood consumption patterns, emphasizing the role of community dynamics, gender roles and access to alternative energy sources. It was estimated from the study that the annual per household consumption of fuelwood was about 20,957 kg. in the area. This shows a huge community's dependence on forest resources. There was also a positive correlation between family size and fuelwood consumption which shows the value; of r = 0.80. With the increase of population in the region the pressure on the forest is also increasing. It was also estimated that a large number of man-days were lost for the fuelwood collection. The study also attempts to highlight the implication of fuelwood collection on women and children and at the same time it discusses about indoor air pollution caused by fuelwood burning. Additionally, it explores the ecological consequences of widespread fuelwood extraction. The most preferred species for fuelwood consumption in the area were reported to be Chir, Banj, Tiloni, Toon, Kafal, Haring, Utees, Buras, Bhimal, etc. Policy recommendations emerge from the findings such as the use of fuel efficient chulhas and the promotion of clean alternative energy sources to alleviate the environmental burden associated with fuelwood consumption.