Critical Study Of The Problem And Prospects Of Timber Business
(A Case Study Of Enugu Timber Dealers And Sawers Association Kenyata)
The timber business presents a complex landscape with various challenges and opportunities. On one hand, environmental concerns regarding deforestation and habitat destruction pose significant hurdles, necessitating sustainable forestry practices and adherence to regulations. Additionally, market fluctuations and economic uncertainties can impact profitability and market demand for timber products. However, the growing awareness of sustainable practices and the increasing demand for eco-friendly construction materials offer promising prospects for the timber industry. Technological advancements, such as precision forestry and timber tracking systems, can enhance efficiency and transparency within the supply chain, fostering trust among consumers. Furthermore, innovative uses of timber in architecture and design, coupled with the rising popularity of timber as a renewable resource, present avenues for growth and diversification within the sector. Embracing these challenges and opportunities while prioritizing environmental stewardship and responsible business practices can drive the sustainable growth of the timber industry.
The success of any enterprise depends cargely on the effectiveness of its human resources in their work. The need for apprcising the problems and propects of timber Business in Enugu state is apparent. This project therefore is a research on timber business in Enugu state. The problems encountered in timber business is a Kin to any other business and the prospects of the timber business is encouraging. This is because virtually all the things we produce today entails the use of wood.
This work intends to expose the funda mental problems in the timber business and to enable the timber dealers to solve their problems more expenthy lots of finding has been made about the subject matter which includes causes of problem in the business and how better they can be economically manned on completion of this project. it was recommended that if government can create more financial aid to the timber dealers and Sawers association to improve in their production facilities and also government should put into consideration those policies affecting the timber business with these, the future of timber business with these, the future of timber business in Enugu would be brighter. To achieve this, the timber dealers should be given opportunity to practice marketing in a wider range so as to enhance their career prospects.
The work is arranged in five chapters. Chapter one introduction, chapter two, review of related literature, chapter three research design and methodology chapter four data presentation and analysis, chapter five discussion, recommendation and conclusion.
Title page
Approval page
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Table of contents
CHAPTER ONE
Introduction 1
1.1 Background of the study 1
1.2 Statement of the problem 3
1.3 Purpose of the study 4
1.4 Scope of the study 5
1.5 Research hypothesis 5
1.6 Significance of the study 6
1.7 Limitations of the study 7
1.8 Definition of terms 8
Reference 9
CHAPTER TWO
Literature Review 10
2.1 Review of related literature 10
2.2 Meaning and needs for timber business 11
2.3 Techniques for identifying timber 14
2.4 Scope of timber business in Nig. 17
2.5 Identification of timber business 20
2.6 The process of timber business 20
References 23
CHAPTER THREE
Research Design and Methodology 24
3.1 Research design 24
3.2 Scope of the study 24
3.3 Population of the study 25
3.4 Sample and sampling procedure 25
3.5 Instruments for data collection 26
3.6 Validation of the instrument 26
3.7 Reliability of the instrument 27
3.8 Method of data collection 27
3.9 Method of data analysis 28
References 29
CHAPTER FOUR
Data Presentation and Analysis 30
4.1 Presentation and analysis of data 30
4.2 Testing of hypothesis 47
4.3 Summary of results 49
References 54
CHAPTER FIVE
Discussions, Recommendation & Conclusion 55
5.1 Discussions of results / findings 55
5.2 Conclusion 56
5.3 Implication of the research findings 57
5.4 Recommendation 58
5.5 Suggestions for further research 59
References 60
Appendix I 61
Appendix ii 62
Bibliography 64
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
The twentieth century industrial revelation experience brought along with it technological developments and the expansion of business organization. As the need for individuals continued to increase, business continued satisfy the increasing needs.
Before Nigeria gained her independence, impact substitution was existing then as a means of industrializing our economy.
Based on that our economy is purely based on production of agricultural products this aspect makes the economy to be the sole producer of agricultural inputs which fluctuates seasonally.
Coupled with the fact that we are developing, many business organization spranly up in the economy, many individuals want into industialisation to shape the future of our economy. To mention somefew industries, which includes the timber industry, textile industry, automobile industry.
Because of the problem suffered by developing countries like Nigeria, these industries fale different constrain and problems to date. The timber business has been in existence ever before the birth of Nigeria but for years the classic image of timber business has been regarded as a mere local business run by lliterates and people of lower class in the society. However the timber business deals mainly with woods of all kinds, like opepe, obeche, Nagzonia, machogang, tick, Abora etc.
These various kinds of woods serve as the main resources on which timber business based. It is an indispensable business in the country because of the services it is kndering to the stimulation of the economy is like other business encounters problems which could be social or economical in nature.
Inspite of these problem encountered in the timber business, it has remained the parrot through which our economy is revitalizing today. This is seen in the roles performed by woods in our modern day life. Today, timber business is among the prime enterprises which is contributing to the economic growth and help in alleviating some of the societal problems by providing technological products that enhance human welfare like television magazines (papers) modera day furniture’s to mention a few are produced from wood processing.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Timber business in Enugu today is faced with a lot of problems that like their counter parts in other states of Nigeria. These problems go a coming way to negate its growth and development in the country and there by limiting its potential contributions to the development of the economy. Among such problems are general lack of funds by proprietors of the business and difficulty in raising it due to limited capital. Thus money to keep the business going and expanding are irrefragably a magohandicap there is lack of managerial acumen due to the proprietors limited education and training. A long side of this, it is lack of technological know how. Although there are many of these timber business in existence today, their impact in terms of the ever charily industrialization of the country is still for fetched. They still operate with in the limit of indigenous market research.
The dealers are confused by what is happening to their traditional markets in this fast moving commercial world. The dynamics of the business environment still look to them like a day dream. They are unable to conduct market survey, dwersity their potential target markets and so on.
Above all, the timber business is faced with problems arising from government fiscal and monetary policies. In recent years, the tax climate and the governments business policies have placed serous restraints on the owners and the opportunities available to them.
1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
In view of the fact enumerated above the objectives of the study is to examine the problems confronting the timber business. To see to what extent they affect Enugu timber dealers and sawers association in its operations and its possible contribution to the economy. Based on the problems identified by the write, necessary suggestions and recommendation will be offered, which if implemented will help the association to solve most of it not all the problems, besides the recommendations will hopefully be of great help to new aspirants into the business and other business entrepreneur to make their business unique.
1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This study might have included research in several other tourns in Nigeria like Ibadan, Bendel, Enugu, Aba etc but due to the constraints involved in research work, the researcher could not go beyond kenyatan. The scope of the study is based on timber business in Enugu state. The problems and prospects and it covers only Enugu Timber Dealers and Sawers association.
1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS
This study intends to test the following hypothesis
HO: To a large extent Natural disaster has no affects on the supply of logs in the timber business.
H1: Natural disaster effect the supply of logs in the timber business.
Ho: The risk incurred in the business has no effect on the timber business.
H1: The risk incurred in the timber business has greatly affected the growth of timber business.
Ho: Government policies has not in any way affected the development of timber business.
H1: Government policies has to a great extent impeded the development of timber business.
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The study is aimed at exposing the proprietors of timber business to dangers in their business things that they failed people in the past and things that one should avoid to be successful in the field of the business as it affects timber business.
The study hopes to prepare students who may want to go into entre prenueral ventures to explore the timber business to be precise, this study will enable the proprietors in timber business to do things on their own way. It does not mean that you must be successful at the end of it all but definitely it will help improve your chances of succeeding.
The study indicates to timber business dealers how to avoid some of the mistakes in initiating, organization and operating a small scale timber business that has been economically fatal to others, therefore enabling them to achieve the optimum benefits from the limited economic and human resources available to them.
1.7 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
This research on the problems and prospects of timber business in Enugu state was not an exception to the usual constraints and other problems associated with similar researches in the Nigeria society. The prominent and most peculiar problems or limitations to this research are discussed.
FINANCE:
This was the most difficult problem on the part of the writer. Although financial aid was received from the association this could not be adequate because of other uses to which the aid was channeled more so the present economic condition being experienced in the country generally.
TIME:
The researcher has no sample of time to explore other necessary avenues for timber business.
Non-availability of documented data:
Unfortunately it was not possible to get documented statistic of the activities gong on in Enugu timber dealers and sawers association. This may be due in part to some preservative and discrete attitude of the management who probably might think that such would be revealing the secrets of the business and thus exposing the association strategy to the competitions or the serve government regulations.
1.8 DEFINITION OF TERMS
Development:- a gradual process of growth or the way one exploits
resources.
Innovation;- To make something new
Timber :- Supply of wood for building and growing trees
Wood: substance of which the trunics and branches of trees are
made e.g furnitures, papers etc.
Dealer: Person in a stated types of business.
Technology:- this is the state or act of ding things in the society
Efficiency:- This is the economic
Market:- this is the anena for potential exchange.
Problem And Prospects Of Timber Business:
A critical study of the problem and prospects of the timber business requires an analysis of the industry’s challenges, opportunities, and potential future trends. The timber business, which involves the harvesting, processing, and distribution of wood products, is influenced by a variety of economic, environmental, and social factors. Here, I will outline some key aspects to consider in such a study:
Problems:
- Deforestation and Environmental Concerns: One of the most significant problems associated with the timber business is deforestation. Unregulated logging can lead to the destruction of vital ecosystems, loss of biodiversity, and disruption of local communities that depend on forests.
- Illegal Logging: Illegal logging remains a critical issue, contributing to deforestation, loss of government revenue, and unethical business practices. This undermines legitimate businesses, harms the environment, and often involves human rights abuses.
- Sustainability: Unsustainable logging practices can deplete forest resources, leading to long-term economic challenges for the industry. There is a growing demand for sustainably sourced timber, which puts pressure on businesses to adopt responsible forestry practices.
- Market Volatility: The timber industry is susceptible to market fluctuations, with prices influenced by factors like housing markets, global economic conditions, and changes in consumer preferences.
- Regulation and Certification: Timber businesses face complex regulations related to logging, processing, and trading. Obtaining certification for sustainable practices (e.g., FSC certification) can be expensive and time-consuming, yet increasingly important to access certain markets.
Prospects:
- Sustainable Practices: Adopting sustainable forestry practices can open up opportunities for timber businesses. Consumers, governments, and companies are showing increased interest in environmentally friendly products, which can create a market for responsibly sourced timber.
- Innovation and Technology: Advancements in technology have led to improved logging techniques, processing methods, and value-added wood products. Timber businesses can embrace these technologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and create innovative products.
- Green Building and Bioeconomy: The demand for sustainable construction materials has led to an increased interest in timber as a building material. Wood is renewable and has a lower carbon footprint compared to other construction materials like concrete and steel. Additionally, timber byproducts can be used in the bioeconomy for producing renewable energy and biochemicals.
- Ecosystem Services: Timber businesses can explore opportunities beyond logging, such as offering ecosystem services like carbon sequestration, water purification, and recreational activities in forests. These services can diversify revenue streams and contribute to the business’s social and environmental value.
- Certification and Traceability: Obtaining certifications for sustainable practices can provide access to premium markets and demonstrate commitment to responsible sourcing. Additionally, advancements in blockchain technology are enabling better traceability of timber products, reducing the risk of illegal logging.
- Circular Economy: Embracing circular economy principles can lead to the development of products with longer lifespans and easier recyclability, reducing waste and increasing the overall value chain efficiency.
In conclusion, the timber business faces a range of challenges, from environmental concerns to market volatility and regulatory pressures. However, by embracing sustainable practices, adopting innovative technologies, and capitalizing on the growing demand for environmentally friendly products, the timber industry can position itself for a more prosperous and responsible future. Critical analysis of these factors can guide businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders in making informed decisions about the present and future of the timber industry.