Activities
FAO has been working with member countries and partner organizations to promote sustainable production and consumption of woodfuels through efforts in three major areas: 1) enhancing supply capacity of sustainably produced biomass; 2) promoting transition from traditional use to modern use of woodfuels; 3) sharing knowledge, information, and good practices to support decision making towards holistic and effective policies. Here are some examples of ongoing or recently completed activities on wood energy (or with a component on wood energy) implemented by various technical units and regional or country offices in collaboration with partners.
Forest management and sustainable charcoal value chain in Uganda
(2021-2025) The project seeks to address negative environmental, social and economic impacts of charcoal production by promoting sustainable charcoal production practices, including establishment of energy woodlots, adoption of more efficient charcoal production kilns and rehabilitation of degraded natural forests on private land. It also aims to support improvements in institutional and policy frameworks to streamline the charcoal value chain, as well as promoting cleaner energy alternatives to reduce over reliance on charcoal in the long-term. Further information can be found in the project bulletin (FAO, 2023).
Greening the humanitarian response in displacement settings: ecosystem restoration and sustainable forest management for enhanced energy access and livelihood resilience
(2023-2025) This project aims to strengthen the resilience of displaced and host communities in rural settings through sustainable management of natural resources, forest ecosystems and access to clean and efficient energy sources. Further information can be found in the project brief (FAO, 2023).
Strengthening sustainable wood energy potential in the Republic of Congo
(PROREP Wood Energy, 2022-2026) This project aims to strengthen the sustainable wood energy potential of Brazzaville through the establishment of 2,700 hectares of quick-start agroforestry plantations for wood energy production. It is part of a larger project, PREFOREST, that aims to establish approximately 11,800 ha of agroforestry and forestry plantations, particularly for the production of wood fuel, with the financial support of the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Further information can be found here.
Sustainable reduction of charcoal and alternative livelihoods in Somalia
(2017-2021) This project aims to promote energy security and more resilient livelihoods through a gradual reduction of unsustainable charcoal production, trade and use in Somalia. Further information about this project can be found here.