Woodfuel Use and Sustainable Development in Haiti *

Abstract

This paper examines energy use and environmental deterioration in Haiti. It applies linear programming to the national energy balance to analyze whether or not the substitution of kerosene or other petroleum fuels for charcoal is economically beneficial and whether it will result in a reduction of pressure for deforestation. It concludes that because of the inefficiencies in the production of charcoal, the substitution of kerosene for charcoal is an economically beneficial option. However, if stimulated through price incentives alone, it is unlikely to lead to an overall reduction in the quantity of wood used for fuel. Energy and environmental policy, therefore, must focus on interfuel substitution, improved efficiency and rural afforestation, in addition to "getting the prices right".