Unpacking livelihood challenges and opportunities in energy crop cultivation: perspectives on Jatropha curcas projects in Mali. Issue 4 (28th October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Favretto, Nicola; Stringer, Lindsay C; Dougill, Andrew J
• Is Part Of: Geographical journal. Volume 180:Issue 4(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 365
• Page End: 376
• Publication Date: 2013-10-28
• Subjects: Geography -- Periodicals; 910
• DOI: 10.1111/geoj.12053
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-7398

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>This study contributes to global debates on biofuels and rural development, providing insights into the role of <italic>Jatropha curcas L. (Jatropha</italic>) in addressing global poverty and promoting sustainable energy. <italic>Jatropha</italic> energy crop investments have proliferated as a means to substitute imported oil, foster rural development and reduce poverty. This paper presents new mixed‐method assessments of the potential for, and initial impacts of, <italic>Jatropha</italic> projects that aim to improve livelihoods and energy security in rural Mali, a leading proponent of <italic>Jatropha</italic> cultivation. Factors affecting the socio‐economic and environmental vulnerabilities of smallholder farmers are assessed and capital assets available for different livelihood strategies are identified and evaluated. Comparative analysis of information gathered through participatory methods allows evaluation of the role played by <italic>Jatropha</italic> cultivation in the determination of different livelihood outcomes. Data show that households involved with NGO or private sector activities linked to <italic>Jatropha</italic> can gain financial capital from the sale of <italic>Jatropha</italic> seeds and soap. Findings also show that small‐scale cultivation does not threaten food security. When grown on a small scale as a living fence, <italic>Jatropha</italic> demarcates property, and reduces land tenure conflicts and soil erosion. Projects focusing on <italic>Jatropha</italic> use for rural electrification offer potential to improve energy access. However, current supplies of <italic>Jatropha</italic> oil remain insufficient for these benefits to materialise. On‐the‐ground challenges were identified, along with opportunities to better link policies to local‐level practices.</p> </abstract>