The Impact of Charcoal Business on the Environment in Nyabubare Sub-County Bushenyi District, Western Uganda
1Akamumpa Nelson and 2Turyamureeba Silaji
1Department of Science Education, Kampala International University, Uganda
2Department of Foundations Education, Kampala International University, Uganda
ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of charcoal business on the environment in Nyabubare sub-county Bushenyi District. The study used descriptive survey research design utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The researcher used questionnaires, interview guide and observation checklist and focus group discussions to collect data. Descriptive analysis was used to analyze the data collected from the field by relating them to the study objectives. Tables and graphs were used to present the field results. This research aimed at finding out the causes of charcoal burning, level of charcoal burning and identifying any measures that are being used in the area. Among the many causes of charcoal burning in Nyabubare Sub County, poverty (27%) and unemployment (23%) were pointed out as the major causes of charcoal burning respectively while low levels of education (8%) and population increase (12%) were the least causes of charcoal burning respectively. The level of charcoal burning was found out to be high (36%) with adverse effects like deforestation (29%) and death and migration of wild animals (19%). Change in micro climate (6%) and loss of herbal medicine (8%) were the least effects of charcoal burning on forests. The study further concluded that the effects of charcoal burning on forests were deforestation, death and migration of wild animals, change in micro climate and loss of herbal medicine. The recommendations were developed by the researcher to improve on the conservation of forests. The recommendations suggested include proper public awareness, strict laws and policies, afforestation, investment in other businesses among others.
Keywords: Charcoal Business, Environment, Deforestation, Sustainability, Nyabubare Sub-County
CITE AS: Akamumpa Nelson and Turyamureeba Silaji (2025). The Impact of Charcoal Business on the Environment in Nyabubare Sub-County Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN EDUCATION 5(2):84-92. https://doi.org/10.59298/RIJRE/2025/528492