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Woodfuel in Ciskei: A Headload Study. South African Forestry Journal No.154, September 1990 Resources
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Bembridge, T.J.and Tarlton, J.E. 1990

This journal paper discusses data on patterns of fuelwood collection and usage from indigenous woodlands by women in Ciskei, South Africa. Heavy dependence on firewood produced through natural regeneration may result in over-cutting but the collection of firewood is not a primary cause of deforestation especially as much firewood is collected in the form of twigs and branches. Rural women have a sophisticated knowledge of trees and shrubs and the main criteria for collection is the suitability of wood for firewood and its abundance. Acacia karoo is the most favoured species. A wide range in collection times is noted to be a reflection of access to wood resources, wood requirements of the family and the efficiency of the collector. Patterns of wood collection are location specific and vary widely thus there are no simple solutions to the problem. Fire management and different means of preparing food are identified as a means of reducing fuel consumption.
T J Bembridge, J E Tarlton

charcoal, firewood/fuelwood, labour
South Africa

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