Papers by MUHAMMAD Y A Z I D ABUBAKAR
Eco. Env. & Cons., 2025
The need for energy sources that are both efficient and cheap, while simultaneously being environ... more The need for energy sources that are both efficient and cheap, while simultaneously being environmentally
sustainable, emphasizes the shift from one form of energy to an alternative source. This review has examined
the transition from charcoal to briquette production in India. It uses various published works from reputable
sources to deduce information on the impact of charcoal production, transition to biomass, briquette
technologies, briquette feedstock, production, and its environmental and economic benefits. Challenges in
the transition, government policies, and intervention in briquette production are also reviewed. The review
revealed the devastating effects charcoal production has on the environment which exacerbates forest
depletion, air pollution, soil erosion, species extinction, and climate change. At the same time, briquette
production influenced rural livelihood and provided more efficient and cleaner energy due to its calorific
value, low emission, and reduced pollution. The biomass feedstock comprises various materials such as
rice husks, groundnut shells, sugarcane bagasse, corn husks, sawdust, cow manure, pine timber, bamboo
particles, plastic refuse, and forestry byproducts. The review investigates the myriad technological
methodologies employed in the production of briquettes. Various methods are used in briquette production
such as compressing the biomass into multiple shapes and sizes. It explores challenges such as cost in
initial setup, lack of awareness, seasonal variation in biomass availability, and lack of storage and supply
chain. The study recommends that further research and policy interventions be made to enhance the adoption
of briquette, provide efficient and affordable technology to rural communities, and expand markets for
briquette industries.
J. Appl. Sci. Environ. Management, 2025
Mineral resource development is essential for poverty reduction, however, its potential blessings... more Mineral resource development is essential for poverty reduction, however, its potential blessings or curses are contentious. Consequently, the objective of this paper was to assess the livelihood vulnerability of household natural capital from artisanal mining in Sanga, Jema"a, Kajuru and Birnin-Gwari Local Governments in Kaduna State, Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques after collecting qualitative and quantitative data. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics like percentage, mean, and Nvivo, version 11.0 software. Results of the study indicated that the overall livelihood vulnerability index of households in the study area was higher (0.608) for the mining communities compared to (0.368) for the non-mining communities. They showed greater vulnerability with regard to land such as increased vulnerability of households with no access to farmlands, small farm sizes, loss of farm sizes, and grazing fields to artisanal mining. Results also indicate that water component shows greater vulnerability in the mining communities than non-mining communities, with regard to households reporting conflicts over water, households that utilised natural water sources, average time to reach water sources and consistent water supply. It is therefore, recommended that there is need to prevent households through the health personnel from consuming polluted and contaminated water in the rivers and streams. Secondly, the need to encourage the in the mining communities to join hands together and provide water to their communities by digging boreholes or open wells to reduce their suffering in sourcing water for domestic uses from rivers and streams.
Mega Chad International Journal of Geosciences, 2025
Artisanal mining remains a vital livelihood strategy for many rural and low-income communities, a... more Artisanal mining remains a vital livelihood strategy for many rural and low-income communities, attracting millions despite volatile mineral markets, environmental degradation, and limited institutional oversight. While it offers short-term income opportunities, artisanal mining often exacerbates household vulnerability, particularly in the absence of formal economic and social safety nets. This study assesses the impact of household Social Capital on the livelihood vulnerability from artisanal mining in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Questionnaire was used to collect data for the study, and analysed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and means. Findings reveal a higher livelihood vulnerability index among households in mining communities (0.474) compared to those in non-mining areas (0.327). Elevated vulnerability in mining areas was linked to demographic factors, including a high prevalence of female-headed households, large numbers of dependents, lack of leadership roles, and weak group affiliations. Additionally, mining households exhibited reduced access to social networks and organizational support. To address these challenges, it is essential for miners to remain engaged with their associations and to foster strong relationships within their communities to build resilience and mutual support.
Akshara Multidisciplinary Research Journal, 2026
Charcoal production has long been a vital component in supporting rural livelihoods in forest-rel... more Charcoal production has long been a vital component in supporting rural livelihoods in forest-reliant areas of India. In the environmentally sensitive Western Ghats, it continues to be a crucial means of subsistence for marginalized and land-poor families, even as environmental and regulatory issues intensify. This paper investigates the connection between charcoal production, rural livelihoods, and environmental sustainability in the Western Ghats by utilizing secondary data from academic sources, government reports, policy documents, and environmental evaluations. The study underscores how charcoal production aids in generating household income, providing employment, and ensuring energy security in rural and peri-urban regions, while also placing stress on forest ecosystems through deforestation, forest degradation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. Framing the analysis within a human-environment and sustainability context, the paper delves into the trade-offs between securing livelihoods and conserving the environment. It also reviews policy responses specific to India, such as forest conservation laws, energy transition initiatives, and rural livelihood programs, assessing their effects on communities reliant on charcoal. The findings indicate that although charcoal production remains a crucial coping and survival mechanism, current production methods are not environmentally sustainable in the long run. The paper advocates for integrated, context-specific strategies that merge sustainable forest management, enhanced charcoal production technologies, alternative energy access, and livelihood diversification. By concentrating on the Western Ghats, the study adds to broader discussions on sustainable development, environmental governance, and rural livelihoods in India's ecologically fragile regions.
International Journal of Advance and Applied Research, 2026
Rural livelihoods in India are intricately linked to agriculture, natural resource utilisation, a... more Rural livelihoods in India are intricately linked to agriculture, natural resource utilisation, and the presence of supporting infrastructure systems. Notwithstanding continuous governmental investment in irrigation, rural roads, electrification, and agricultural development initiatives, numerous areas persistently encounter issues associated with environmental stress, livelihood vulnerability, and inequitable access to infrastructure. The Kolhapur District in western Maharashtra is an advanced agrarian area marked by intense irrigation, cooperative agricultural institutions, diversified planting patterns, and growing non-farm activity. Nonetheless, escalating strain on land and water resources, climate fluctuations, and infrastructural inefficiencies heighten apprehensions over the long-term viability of rural livelihoods. This study investigates the connections among rural livelihoods, resource utilisation, and developmental difficulties in Kolhapur District. This study evaluates livelihood structures, patterns of natural resource dependency, and limits in rural infrastructure using secondary data from the District Statistical Handbook, Census of India, government policy documents, and current scholarly literature. The findings indicate that although agriculture and related activities, especially sugarcane cultivation and dairy farming, offer livelihood security, overdependence on water-intensive crops, groundwater depletion, and uneven infrastructure development intensify environmental stress and livelihood vulnerability. Restricted diversification into non-agricultural occupations further undermines rural resilience. This paper contends that sustainable rural development in the Kolhapur District necessitates integrated strategies that amalgamate effective resource management, infrastructural enhancement, and livelihood diversification. Enhancing water-use efficiency, fostering climate-resilient agriculture, expanding rural market accessibility, and bolstering local institutional capacity are essential for achieving inclusive and environmentally sustainable rural development. This study enhances district-level policy discussions by emphasising the necessity of aligning infrastructure development with the sustainability of natural resources and the security of rural livelihoods.
Amit International Impact Factor Journals, 2026
Climate change is one of the most urgent environmental and developmental issues of the
twenty-fir... more Climate change is one of the most urgent environmental and developmental issues of the
twenty-first century, presenting significant threats to ecosystems, economies, and human
welfare globally. Scientific research shows that the global average temperature has risen by
approximately 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, with atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
surpassing 420 ppm and a global mean sea level increase of approximately 20 cm since 1900.
These shifts have intensified extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem
degradation, thereby threatening environmental sustainability and increasing socioeconomic
vulnerabilities, particularly in developing areas. This study explores the intricate relationship
between climate change and environmental sustainability, concentrating on the key
challenges and strategies for creating a resilient future. Through an extensive review of the
academic literature, international environmental reports, and global policy frameworks, this
study identifies the major drivers of environmental degradation, including reliance on fossil
fuels, deforestation, unsustainable land use, rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and weak
governance. It also assesses mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as transitioning to
renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, ecosystem restoration, sustainable urban
planning, circular economy practices, disaster risk reduction, and inclusive environmental
governance. Thisstudy contends that achieving environmental sustainability in the face of
accelerating climate change necessitates integrated, multi-level approaches that combine
technological innovation, policy reforms, financial investment, institutional strengthening,
behavioral change, and community involvement. The study concludes that coordinated global
and local efforts are crucial for reducing climate risks, enhancing resilience, and ensuring
sustainable development pathways for current and future generations.
Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology, 2025
Mining is a global phenomenon with severe effects on natural resources including loss of vegetati... more Mining is a global phenomenon with severe effects on natural resources including loss of vegetation, agricultural lands and domestic water sources. Artisanal mining which is one of the human activities carried out in the rural communities of Kaduna State has severe effects on the environment and people source of livelihood. This study assesses the impact of artisanal mining on environmental sustainability and natural resource management in Kaduna State, Nigeria. A mixed-Original Research Article
Kashere Journal of Geography and Sustainable Environment (KJGSE), 2024
This study mapped out the spatial distribution of artisanal mining in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Data... more This study mapped out the spatial distribution of artisanal mining in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Data for the study was collected using Global Positioning System (GPS) device and Google Earth Map where coordinates of mining locations were recorded. The result was analysed using GIS software and descriptive statistical methods which were presented using percentages, tables, plates and figures. A total of 103 mining sites were identified and enumerated in 36 communities of the four local government areas under study, of which 44.7% were in clusters while, 55.3% in stand-alone mode. About 51.5% of the mining sites were active, while 48.5% abandoned. Jema'a and Birnin Gwari local government Areas were found to be the hotspot for artisanal mining activity, while Sanga and Kajuru were the local government areas with less activity in the study area. Mining is done illegally in the study area and those that involved in such activity are individuals, groups such as family/household members, friends, school teachers and members of mining communities. Implements used for the operation are diggers, hammers; shovels, head pans, winnowers and chisels, frying pan, wheel barrow, touch lights and sacks, while, underground; surface and placer mining were identified to be the forms of mining activities in the study area. It is therefore recommended that there is need to prevent illegal mining by the government of Nigeria through gathering of geological data on minerals available in the study area in order to demarcate and allocate plots which have mineral contents to miners, and hence reduce illegal mining exacerbated by discontentment.
FUDMA Journal of Sciences (FJS), 2019
Vegetation is one of the living components of the environment that provides food for man and shel... more Vegetation is one of the living components of the environment that provides food for man and shelter for wildlife. This paper assesses tree species density and diversity in Jema'a Local Government, Kaduna State, Nigeria with a view to providing information for sustainable natural resource management. Stratified sampling design was used to group the study area into four land use types, namely: forests, woodlands, farmlands and built-up Areas. Data for this study were collected from 48 sample plots of 20 × 20m laid out systematically across the study land use types. The establishment of plots was done by the use of measuring tape, ranging poles and GPS. Within each plot, tree species density and diversity, height, and dbh were obtained. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. Result indicates that a total of 556 individual stands of woody species were identified and enumerated in the study area through the field survey. These belong to 50 species, 48 genera and 26 families. Species which recorded the highest representation are Sterculia setigera (10.6%), Terminalia macroptera (8.55%), Anona senegalensis and Lophira alata had (7.82%) each. While, the families combretaceae and fabaceae had the highest number of tree species of five each. It is recommended that a sustainable forest management be urgently adopted that involves indigenous people participation and the government.
IOSR Journal of Humanities And Social Science (IOSR-JHSS), 2020
This paper examined natural resource conflict in Southern Kaduna State, Nigeria, with a view to p... more This paper examined natural resource conflict in Southern Kaduna State, Nigeria, with a view to providing information for lasting peace among the citizens. Data for this study was obtained through questionnaire survey, in-depth interview and direct field observation. The result indicates that the conflicts occur due to the destruction of farmlands, killing of livestock, blocking of cattle routes, and proliferation of weapons, claiming of ownership of land, destruction of economic trees, politics, and lack of punishment to offenders, media and religious bodies/leaders. The result also showed that the conflicts lead to loss of lives, properties, and livestock, destruction of crops, forceful migration and displacement of people, cattle rustling and kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry, school drop-out, increase in raped cases and unwanted pregnancies, prostitution and hunger and malnutrition. The findings also showed that the nature of the conflicts are associated to herdersfarmers clashes, farmers-farmers clashes, herders-herders clashes and communal clashes. It is recommended that cattle routes blocked by farmers should be open to allow free movement of herders and their herds, children should be prevented from taking herds for grazing, strengthening security by recruiting more vigilant group and State Police and paying them some stipends, disarmament of people by the security authorities and finally, equal treatment be giving to all citizens in all parts of the state and the country at large.
African Journal of Economics and Sustainable Development, 2021
This paper examined the impact of Covid-19 on transportation and other livelihood sources that de... more This paper examined the impact of Covid-19 on transportation and other livelihood sources that depend on transportation in Southern Kaduna State of Nigeria, with a view to providing information for sustainable level of transportation even in the presence of any pandemic in the world. Data for this study was collected through questionnaire survey, in-depth interview and direct field observation. The result indicates that Covid-19 has led to increase in the cost of transport, restriction on movement, loss of jobs, extortion of money from the masses by the security personnel, and also loss of revenue by the government, loss of income and increase poverty to people, loss of farm produce, increased the cost of managing livestock, increased the level of insecurity and reduction in road traffic crashes in Southern Kaduna. It is recommended that workers salary should be increase to avoid the extortion of money from the masses by the security personnel, provision of nose masks at affordable prices and making it compulsory for all persons to used when travelling, encourage the use of personal vehicles, bicycle and motor cycle to decongest commercial bus stations, and finally, reduction in number of passengers for commercial vehicles to observe social distancing.
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Papers by MUHAMMAD Y A Z I D ABUBAKAR
sustainable, emphasizes the shift from one form of energy to an alternative source. This review has examined
the transition from charcoal to briquette production in India. It uses various published works from reputable
sources to deduce information on the impact of charcoal production, transition to biomass, briquette
technologies, briquette feedstock, production, and its environmental and economic benefits. Challenges in
the transition, government policies, and intervention in briquette production are also reviewed. The review
revealed the devastating effects charcoal production has on the environment which exacerbates forest
depletion, air pollution, soil erosion, species extinction, and climate change. At the same time, briquette
production influenced rural livelihood and provided more efficient and cleaner energy due to its calorific
value, low emission, and reduced pollution. The biomass feedstock comprises various materials such as
rice husks, groundnut shells, sugarcane bagasse, corn husks, sawdust, cow manure, pine timber, bamboo
particles, plastic refuse, and forestry byproducts. The review investigates the myriad technological
methodologies employed in the production of briquettes. Various methods are used in briquette production
such as compressing the biomass into multiple shapes and sizes. It explores challenges such as cost in
initial setup, lack of awareness, seasonal variation in biomass availability, and lack of storage and supply
chain. The study recommends that further research and policy interventions be made to enhance the adoption
of briquette, provide efficient and affordable technology to rural communities, and expand markets for
briquette industries.
twenty-first century, presenting significant threats to ecosystems, economies, and human
welfare globally. Scientific research shows that the global average temperature has risen by
approximately 1.1°C above pre-industrial levels, with atmospheric carbon dioxide levels
surpassing 420 ppm and a global mean sea level increase of approximately 20 cm since 1900.
These shifts have intensified extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem
degradation, thereby threatening environmental sustainability and increasing socioeconomic
vulnerabilities, particularly in developing areas. This study explores the intricate relationship
between climate change and environmental sustainability, concentrating on the key
challenges and strategies for creating a resilient future. Through an extensive review of the
academic literature, international environmental reports, and global policy frameworks, this
study identifies the major drivers of environmental degradation, including reliance on fossil
fuels, deforestation, unsustainable land use, rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and weak
governance. It also assesses mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as transitioning to
renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, ecosystem restoration, sustainable urban
planning, circular economy practices, disaster risk reduction, and inclusive environmental
governance. Thisstudy contends that achieving environmental sustainability in the face of
accelerating climate change necessitates integrated, multi-level approaches that combine
technological innovation, policy reforms, financial investment, institutional strengthening,
behavioral change, and community involvement. The study concludes that coordinated global
and local efforts are crucial for reducing climate risks, enhancing resilience, and ensuring
sustainable development pathways for current and future generations.