Fuelwood Consumption by Semi-Nomadic Communities of Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in Bhutan

Norbu Yangdon, Kumbu Dorji, Sonam Tobgay

Abstract: Fuelwood is essential for the survival of rural households in Bhutan as almost 94 % of rural household energy consumption is met by fuelwood. This study examined the consumption of fuelwood by a semi-nomadic community residing in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary. Data was collected from 173 households using semi structured interviews, Participatory Rural Appraisal techniques, a structured survey questionnaire and fuelwood allotment data from Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, park office. The results indicate that on an average one household in Merak and Sakteng consume 335 Cubic feet of fuelwood in a year which is equivalent to 4.7 standing trees. Despite connectivity of road and electricity in these villages, the pressure on fuelwood persists due to its use for heating purposes owing to harsh weather conditions. Change in constructional design of the house which conserves heat energy while still maintaining the traditional outlook and exploring the use of alternative source of energy such as solar energy and biogas wherever feasible can help in reducing the use of fuelwood in Sakteng Wildlife sanctuary.

Keywords: Fuelwood, Consumption, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary SWS, Bhutan, Brokpa herders