Assessing the Impact of Charcoal Production on Forest Degradation: A Case Study of Voinjama District Lofa County

This study investigates the impact of charcoal production on forest degradation in Voinjama District, Lofa County an area characterized by dense secondary forests and a growing dependence on forest resources for livelihoods. Using a mixed-methods approach involving structured questionnaires and spatial data, the research assesses the extent of deforestation, the socio-economic drivers of charcoal production, and its environmental consequences from 2019 to 2024. Findings reveal that charcoal production is widely practiced and mainly driven by income generation (63.5%), unemployment (16.2%), and lack of alternative livelihoods (15.5%). A significant majority (75.2%) of respondents recognized the role of charcoal production in forest degradation, citing deforestation, soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and climate impacts as key concerns. Spatial data analysis and community responses also indicate that charcoal harvesting has expanded beyond accessible areas into remote forest zones, complicating monitoring efforts. Moreover, institutional weaknesses, including limited enforcement of forest regulations, were identified as enabling factors for continued forest exploitation. The study concludes that charcoal production, while economically vital for rural communities, presents serious environmental threats that undermine sustainable forest management and climate resilience in Liberia especially Lofa county. It recommends the development of alternative livelihoods, improved forest governance, community-led reforestation programs, and targeted environmental education. Addressing these challenges requires integrated policy interventions that balance ecological sustainability with socio-economic development to curb forest degradation in Voinjama District and similar regions.