By Mabel Adorkor Annang
The Energy Commission is calling on charcoal exporters to strictly adhere to the guidelines set out in their licenses to ensure sustainable production practices.
Speaking to Energy News, the Senior Manager for Renewable Energy Regulations at the Commission, Mr. John Yeboah, stated that the guidelines are essential for minimizing environmental degradation and promoting a more sustainable charcoal sector.
Mr. Yeboah explained that the guidelines help maintain a balance between environmental responsibility and charcoal production.
“If you want to go into the production of charcoal for the export market, you need a license from the Energy Commission. When granting a license, the Commission provides guidelines that must be followed. Anyone involved in charcoal production for export must consider efficiency and the sustainability of the industry. They must use the recommended methods and improved carbonization technologies we have introduced to produce more efficiently, minimize wood consumption, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere,” he explained.
He further emphasized that adherence to these guidelines ensures economic benefits while promoting environmental sustainability.
“Charcoal production is a business that cannot be stopped abruptly. It is a sustainable and continuous enterprise, so producers must comply with existing rules and regulations while awaiting future regulatory updates,” he added.
Ghana’s charcoal industry continues to play a vital role in domestic energy consumption and international trade, with over 66 percent of households relying on it for cooking.
Beyond local use, the country also exports significant quantities of wood charcoal, strengthening its economic ties with markets in the Middle East and Europe.
To ensure sustainable production and compliance with environmental standards, Ghana’s Energy Commission regulates charcoal exports through a structured licensing process.
With the growing global demand for charcoal, adherence to strict guidelines will be key to maintaining a viable and environmentally responsible charcoal industry.
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