Abstract
Firewood is used as a common-pool resource to satisfy local energy
demands. However, crops and pastures are replacing large areas of Chaco forest at
a high rate. Production is destined to satisfy global demands of energy and food,
which in turn threatens local livelihoods. In this work, we explore the evolution
of regional consumption and supply of firewood highly influenced by new and
globalized dynamics of the soy agribusiness. In so doing we analyse two decades
(1990–2010) of deforestation and firewood consumption, considering regional
data on poverty conditions. We also explore future trends based on territorial
zoning. As a result, we propose a regional classification that shows four realities
in which the forest plays a significant role as a safety net and thus sustaining local
livelihoods. Finally, we explore future regional development patterns. We call
them socio-forest transitions, going towards greater use of the territory by global
players and increased restrictions on access to and use of common-pool resources
by locals. Our results have implications in future policy making.