Environment & Ecosystem Science (EES)

This study investigates the key factors influencing fuelwood consumption among rural households in Ethiopia. The research aims to understand the role of fuelwood in household income and energy use, and to identify the determinants of its consumption and the adoption of alternative energy technologies. Given the critical importance of fuelwood in rural livelihoods, the study also explores the extent of household dependence on forest resources. Data were collected from 197 rural households using household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The results indicate that fuelwood is both a dominant income and energy source, with over 97.5% of households relying on it as their primary energy source. The average annual household income was 28,166.07 Ethiopian Birr, with fuelwood accounting for 63.8% (17,546.45 Birr). Crop production contributed 30.9% of income, and livestock only 5.3%. Fuelwood sources included own plantations (30%), community forests (40.5%), market purchases (9.6%), and mixed sources (19.4%). A multiple linear regression analysis showed that sex, age, marital status, livestock holdings, and access to information on alternative energy significantly influenced fuelwood income. Additionally, fuelwood consumption was affected by marital status, access to information, and distance from forest resources. A binary logistic regression model identified family size, land size, fuelwood income, crop income, and the presence of an independent kitchen as significant factors influencing the adoption of alternative energy technologies. The findings highlight the need for targeted policy interventions. These include promoting access to alternative energy sources, improving the dissemination of information, and supporting agroforestry and sustainable land-use practices. Such measures are crucial for reducing pressure on forest resources, enhancing household income diversity, and fostering environmental sustainability in rural
communities.