Description:
Economic trees such as shea, locust bean, mahogany, iroko, and cashew are being destroyed at alarming rates to supply Nigeria’s growing charcoal export industry. Millions of mature trees vanish annually, undermining forests, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.
Desired Outcome:
Protect and preserve Nigeria’s economic trees by enforcing sustainable practices, establishing certification systems, and curbing illegal or exploitative charcoal exports.
What Could Go Wrong:
Forests and reserves irreversibly depleted; industries (shea butter, locust bean, timber, medicine) collapse; accelerated climate change and desertification.
Current Situation:
Nigeria exports 400,000+ tons of charcoal annually. Each ton requires 7–10 mature trees. 350,000 hectares of forest are lost yearly. In some states, over 60% of economic trees are already gone.
Action Strategy:
Declare a state of emergency on charcoal exports; enforce strict regulation and certification; raise awareness through media and communities; promote alternative energy sources and sustainable forest management.
Concern Category:
Environment
Location:
Nigeria
Analysis: Not available
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