THE TREELESS FORESTS OF HAITI
Abstract
In Haiti, the poorest country in the hemisphere, energy problems are even greater. A 2004 report produced by Haitian government, the UN, and the World Bank recommended "converting" 30,000 urban households and 1,000 businesses to gas or kerosene, as well as promoting "alternative" energy sources. But there is no mention of subsidizing other fuels. That means, as long as charcoal is cheaper, and as long as its sale is allowed, it will probably remain both an income-earner and the fuel for Haiti's majority. The extensive use of wood for fuel has resulted in massive deforestation in the Caribbean nation, resulting in significant environmental problems, such as erosion.
This paper has been withdrawn.
