Abstract
M.A.
Although South Africa is a country endowed with abundant energy resources (fuels
such as coal, uranium and gas), biomass is the prime source of energy for cooking and
heating in the rural domestic sector. Fuelwood is the common biomass used, followed
by crop residues and animal dung.
This research examines the environmental and socio-economic impacts of biomass
energy consumption in the Mbhokota village in the Northern Province. The research
was conducted by means of a field survey. Data collection methods included
administering questionnaires to those who are involved in fuelwood collection
(mostly women), interviews with various interested groups and personal observation
of the affected sites, and a review of literature relevant to this study.
The use of biomass as a source of fuel has much wider implications for the social and
biophysical environments. The excessive cutting of trees for fuel leads to a reduction
in the diversity of plant species and destruction of habitat for wildlife. Loss of soil
cover through the use of crop residues increases soil erosion and thus reduces the
agricultural production. The use of biomass fuels gives rise to high levels of indoor air
pollution which affects the health of people.
As fuelwood supplies diminish, people must travel further and hence spend more time
collecting wood. Greater time spent collecting wood means that less time is spent on
food production and other household activities (farming, childcare, housekeeping,
socialising and educating themselves). Other issues of concern include the high cost
of purchasing wood from vendors and personal security in places where wood is
collected. The above factors do not only entrench poverty, but also have dire
implications for the rural economy.
This study has shown that the present patterns of fuelwood collection inflict
permanent damage on the environment, reducing its ability to provide further fuel in
the future. The implication is that the supply of fuelwood can no longer be
guaranteed in some parts of the study area, leading to the use of crop residues and
animal dung.
This report also highlights the recommendations and management measures (based on
the results of the study) that can be used in mitigating the impacts of biomass energy
use. These include the introduction of improved stoves, use of solar energy as an
alternative energy source, empowerment of women, establishment of community
based projects and integrating energy with rural development