英媒：木炭经济为何在非洲如此重要？

Core Insights - The charcoal economy in Africa remains vital due to its role in urbanization and energy needs, with nearly 200 million Africans relying on charcoal for cooking since 1990, offsetting the decline in firewood usage [1] - Charcoal's appeal lies in its energy density, being nearly twice as energy-rich as the wood used to produce it, facilitating transportation and infrastructure development in major cities [1] - The charcoal trade in Africa is valued at hundreds of billions of dollars, potentially surpassing income from cocoa or coffee, despite environmental concerns and illegal logging practices [2] Industry Overview - Millions in rural Africa produce charcoal, with the number of charcoal workers exceeding that of coal miners globally; the production process involves heating wood in low-oxygen conditions to remove moisture and volatile gases [2] - The cost of raw materials for charcoal production is often negligible, as producers can harvest wood from their own land, leading to a significant informal market where farmers sell charcoal for cash [2] - Governments are caught between legalizing charcoal trade and enforcing bans, with some countries experiencing black markets for charcoal, while others promote cleaner energy alternatives like liquefied petroleum gas [3] Market Dynamics - Charcoal production in Africa is growing at an annual rate of 2%, indicating a persistent reliance on this fuel source despite the push for cleaner energy options [3] - In Kenya, over half of urban residents use liquefied petroleum gas as their primary fuel, yet many households still find it difficult to abandon charcoal due to economic constraints [3]