Effects of firewood consumption on the biodiversity across the communities in Awka North Local Government Area

Abstract

This study employed a mixed-method research design, integrating quantitative surveys with qualitative focus group discussions and key informant interviews to examine the effects of firewood consumption on biodiversity in Awka North Local Government Area (LGA), Anambra State, Nigeria. Six rural communities were purposively selected, with a sample of 400 residents determined using Taro Yamane’s formula and proportionally allocated. Data were collected via structured questionnaires, validated by experts, and pilot-tested for reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), while qualitative insights contextualized ecological and socio-economic patterns, enabling a comprehensive understanding of how household firewood use impacts biodiversity. According to respondents in Awka North LGA, the use of firewood has a huge effect on biodiversity. 351 respondents (88 percent) reported loss of trees, reducing food and shelter to the wildlife. Three hundred and one respondents (78 percent) reported deforestation that reduced habitat of various species and 302 respondents (76 percent) reported loss of rare plants. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to identify four significant dimensions that explain 94.85 percent of the variance: Component 1 (42.54) - ecosystem resilience and sustainability; Component 2 (26.59) - reduction of species richness; Component 3 (14.32) - extinction of plant species; Component 4 (11.40) - disruption of microclimate. The ANOVA did not reveal any significant difference between communities (F = 1.163, p = 0.34), meaning that there are no variances in perceptions of all six communities. The researchers found that the use of firewood is always a danger to the biodiversity of all communities, disturbing ecosystem strength, species richness, and equilibrium. To reduce such impacts and to save local biodiversity, it is suggested that sustainable energy options and community-based conservation strategies should be used.