War energy shocks drive return to wood fuel

Energy shocks stemming from the US war with Iran are having cascading environmental and social effects far beyond the conflict zone. According to an AP report, the increased cost and unreliability of cleaner fuels are pushing households across Africa and South Asia back to using charcoal and firewood for cooking. This shift threatens to reverse progress on public health and conservation efforts, as it increases deforestation and indoor air pollution. The report highlights how the economic fallout of the conflict is directly impacting daily life and environmental sustainability in vulnerable regions.