RURAL AND URBAN DEMAND, SUPPLY, DISTRIBUTION AND USE OF FUELWOOD AND CHARCOAL FOR DOMESTIC PURPOSES IN THAILAND

Abstract

Analysis of results from the survey of charcoal production, distribution and consumption conducted by Planning Division, Royal Forest Department in 1982 shows that production of charcoal for the country is 3,427.53 million kg of charcoal or equivalent to 22.54 million cubic meter of roundwood. Selling price at kiln for mangrove, sawmill residue, Para rubber and upland wood charcoal is averaged at 2.67, 1.50, 1.40 and 1.39 Baht/kg respectively. Price as sold by agents or middleman ranges from 2.21-3.26 Baht/kg.

Consumption of 3 sectors, the household sector, industrial sector and social services sector, amount to 3,378.36 million kg; details for each sector by region and by urban (municipal t sanitary) and rural areas are also given.

Comparison of consumption in rural and urban areas shows that: rural consumption taking 33 million population as a base is 2,087,66 million kg, equivalent to 13.73 million m³ of roundwood and resulting in 0.41 m³ per caput; urban consumption with 14 million population is 1,291.21 million kg or 8.49 million m³ roundwood equivalent, per caput is 0.61 m.³ Total charcoal consumption of the country in 1982, with 47 million population is 3,378.89 million kg or 22.22 million m³ in roundwood equivalent, per caput consumption is 0.47 m³ R.E.

Comparison with previous studies in 1970 and 1980 shows less use of fuelwood in rural areas. Per caput consumption of charcoal in 1970, 1980 and 1982 varies from 0.51 to 0.54 and 0.47 m³ respectively.