Labour–Carbon Dynamics in Rural Nigeria: Econometric Modelling for Inclusive Biochar Value Chains and Global Market Integration
This study pioneers a labour-carbon framework for sustainable biochar in Nigeria, cutting emissions, boosting smallholder access to carbon markets, and advancing gender equity through tech, policy, and cooperative innovation.
Abstract
This study addresses Nigeria’s climate-agriculture crisis, where deforestation and residue burning from agricultural expansion significantly increase emissions and degrade soils, threatening rural livelihoods. It aims to optimize sustainable biochar value chains using a novel labour-carbon econometrics framework to align ecological and socioeconomic benefits. A sequential mixed-methods approach was applied across six Nigerian states, integrating innovations in IoT-based production, block chain verification, gender-targeted cooperatives, and dynamic policy modelling. Key findings demonstrate a 38-41% reduction in labour inputs while maintaining sequestration yields of 8.7-12.3 tCO₂e/ha. Blockchain verification slashed transaction costs to $0.75/credit, enabling 525% more smallholders to access carbon markets. Furthermore, women's income share increased by 27.3% and they reinvested 89% of carbon revenues in child education. The study concludes that a coordinated approach across technical, social, and policy domains is critical for success. It provides a replicable blueprint, proven to drive ecological restoration, economic inclusion, and gender justice in the Global South.
Keywords: Biochar value chains, Labour-carbon econometrics, Climate-agriculture crisis, Gender-inclusive cooperatives, Carbon market access
Citation: Akinnubi R. T. & Oziegbe R. (2025). Labour–Carbon Dynamics in Rural Nigeria: Econometric Modelling for Inclusive Biochar Value Chains and Global Market Integration. Journal of Education, Science and Technology 2025, (1) 1.94-102.
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