The Citizens Environment and Social Concern says there is need for Zambia to invest heavily in science and innovation in order to combat deforestation.
Organization Executive Director Conwell Hakapya has also called for concerted efforts in combating deforestation in Zambia.
Mr. Hakapya says charcoal production is a major driver of deforestation in Zambia as this has also been proved by various surveys.
He says there is an urgent need to come up with sustainable alternatives to charcoal as the country pursues a vigorous deforestation program.
“According to the Central Statistical Office statistics in 2010, over 50 percent of households in urban areas use charcoal while almost 100 percent of rural households use firewood for cooking. This is not sustainable for a country like Zambia.
“If we cut down about 300, 000 hectors of forest per year and plough back 30, 000, this is a problem hence we need to invest more in science and innovation.”
Mr. Hakapya has since called for concerted efforts from all players including the government, corporate entities, Civil Society Organizations and the Traditional Leaders.

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