16 June 2014: The World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) released two technical briefs on the sustainability of charcoal and firewood use in Kenya. The reports note that, in Kenya, charcoal and firewood production support the livelihoods of more than 2 million people. However, firewood is not yet adequately included in energy policies.

Based on an analysis of the policy environment for production and trade, the institutions involved and problems associated with the industries, the reports suggest a number of avenues to improve sustainability. Key options include: promoting the adoptions of technologies for efficient production and consumption, awareness raising of sustainable practices, and building a supportive policy framework.

Specifically with regard to fuelwood, the report titled ‘Sustainable Firewood Access and Utilization’ calls for research to fill knowledge gaps on farm planning and harvesting, the mapping of tree species, the enforcement of bioenergy policies and regulations. The publication also recommends investments in plantations for woodfuel, on-farm tree planting, and efficient cook stoves.

Regarding charcoal, the report titled ‘Achieving Sustainable Charcoal in Kenya’ calls for the development of a baseline on supply and demand, the promotion of research and development into sustainable technologies, and the establishment of an inter-ministerial forum for the harmonization of policies.

ICRAF is a part of the CGIAR consortium. [ICRAF Press Release] [Publication: Sustainable Firewood Access and Utilization – Achieving cross-sectoral integration in Kenya] [Publication: Achieving Sustainable Charcoal in Kenya – Harnessing the opportunities for cross-sectoral integration]