Factors affecting fuel-wood consumption in the central highlands and conservation drawbacks to the montane forest system in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's montane forests, vital for biodiversity and water catchment, face growing threats from unsustainable fuelwood consumption. Research reveals that population growth, low income, traditional cooking methods, and limited access to alternative energy drive high demand, with households sourcing significant portions directly from nearby forests. This extraction exacerbates deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and biodiversity loss while degrading water retention capacity, increasing soil erosion and downstream water scarcity. The study highlights the need for integrated conservation strategies, including energy-efficient technologies and community-based interventions, to balance livelihood needs with forest preservation.

Anuruddha, M. C., Morimoto, T., Gamage, S., & Marikar, F. (2025). Factors affecting fuel-wood consumption in the central highlands and conservation drawbacks to the montane forest system in Sri Lanka. Discover Forests, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44415-025-00045-w