Impact of Forest Plantations on Energy Poverty: An Assessment of Reforestation Efforts in Uganda

Authors' Names

Matilda Kabutey-OngorFollow

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Category

Social Sciences/Humanities

Abstract/Artist Statement

This study investigates how forest plantations can help alleviate energy poverty in Uganda, a country facing deforestation and high reliance, on biomass for energy. Energy poverty, predominant in rural regions, is defined by the limited availability of sustainable energy services, affecting areas such as health, education, and overall household welfare. The study hypothesizes that through sustainable afforestation, access to biomass and other renewable energy sources can be improved, thereby alleviating energy poverty. A linear regression model is employed to quantify these relationships, providing a robust statistical framework to explain the complex dynamics between forest plantation stages and energy poverty. Employing this quantitative methodology contrasts with past studies in the field, which predominantly relied on descriptive statistics, the research uses the Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI), incorporating parameters like access to modern cooking fuel, electricity, TV and radio, and basic household appliances, as the dependent variable. Key independent variables are proximity to planted or unplanted land and the plantation stage—categorized as Never Planted, New Plantation, Growing, and Harvested. The theoretical framework associates mature (Harvested) plantations with lower energy poverty due to stable biomass supply, while areas lacking or with new plantations face higher energy poverty, highlighting the importance of established forests. Preliminary results, using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) and the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), show the New Plantation stage notably decreases energy poverty, emphasizing its role in reforestation and poverty reduction. The impact of other plantation stages varies, with household characteristics and socioeconomic factors playing a significant role in influencing energy poverty levels. This research contributes to forest plantations' multifaceted role in addressing energy poverty and highlights the necessity of integrating energy policy with sustainable forestry management. The findings are geared towards assisting policymakers and stakeholders in formulating strategies that balance environmental sustainability with the reduction of energy poverty, especially in developing countries like Uganda. These insights and recommendations are also relevant for similar initiatives in other contexts.

Mentor Name

Katrina Mullan

Personal Statement

As a Ghanaian international student, I'm driven to advance development in African countries through insightful research. My visit to Uganda during the summer provided me with firsthand insights into the reforestation efforts led by the World Bank and various international bodies aimed at improving the country's forest cover. The National Forestry Authority (NFA) of Uganda has been actively engaged in tree planting initiatives to address the challenges posed by rapid deforestation, growing population demand, and escalating demand for timber and fuelwood. However, the slow increase in forest cover highlights the need for a deeper inquiry into the underlying factors and their effects on household well-being. My research, titled "Impact of Forest Plantations on Energy Poverty: An Assessment of Reforestation Efforts in Uganda," holds immense value on several fronts. For me, it represents a deep commitment to addressing energy poverty, a global challenge that affects millions. By exploring sustainable solutions through reforestation my work contributes significantly to innovative and impactful research. Energy poverty over the years has been defined to mean various things. For my study, I refer to energy poverty as the situation where households lack access to basic energy services and technologies such as electricity, modern cooking fuel technology (Gas, electricity, and kerosene among others), basic household appliances (flat iron and kettle) and access to TV and Radio. This definition is tailored to the specific challenges of my study area. The categorization of the plantation stages is detailed into four groups: ‘Never Planted', untouched degraded forests; 'New Plantation', the initial two years of reforestation; 'Growing', plantations between two years and harvest; and 'Harvested', areas where trees have been cut and replanting begins. This categorization ensures that each level of government’s involvement in the tree-planting efforts is properly represented and evaluated. Unlike previous studies that largely used descriptive analysis, my research employs two innovative index-creation methods to measure energy poverty, ensuring the findings are relevant to my study area making a significant contribution to academia. Beyond academic circles, this research is of substantial value to communities in Uganda and similar settings, guiding sustainable energy policies and actions. The findings have practical implications for enhancing the quality of life in energy-poor areas. Additionally, my work contributes to the global dialogue on sustainable energy and environmental conservation, emphasizing how integrating forestry and energy strategies can mitigate poverty and protect natural resources. In summary, my research stands out for its holistic approach, potential for real-world impact, and alignment with global sustainability goals. These qualities, I believe, make it a worthy candidate for the "Best of GradCon" award, demonstrating how academic research can be a powerful tool for societal change.