Exploring the Utilization of Lesser-Known Species for Furniture Production—A Case Study in the Western Region, Ghana

Abstract

Increased demand for traditional timber species has led to the depletion of large areas of Ghana’s forest cover. Sustainable forest management requires that measures are put in place to minimize forest depletion through the utili-zation of lesser-known species, reforestation, setting margins for annual al-lowable cut, banning export of round logs, conservation of biological diversity and promotion of efficient wood-based industry. The study aimed at exploring public perception on the use of lesser-known species for making furniture to save our dwindling forest. The research methods adopted were purposive and random sampling. It is purposive because the research was targeted at furniture shops and furniture showrooms and random sampling was used to make the selection. A questionnaire was developed to acquire data for the study from experienced people in the timber industry as well as the general public. Specifically, 450 people were contacted to fill the questionnaire from 15 constituencies out of 29 in the Western Region. Personal interviews were also conducted. The research revealed that most Ghanaians prefer traditional species to the lesser-known ones. Greater part of the population prefers species like Odum, Danta, Dahoma, and Denyan etc. For roofing whiles Cedar, mahogany, Makore, Walnut, and Avodirie are used for furniture. The perception is that when the traditional species are used for either roofing or furniture they last longer. Some challenges with the use of lesser-known species are lack of ready market for products may from lesser known species, and lack of requisite machines to work with some of the lesser-known species etc. The study concluded that there is the need here in Ghana to promote the utilization of lesser known species; since majority of furniture manufacturers have little knowledge about their usage in the industry.