1 Introduction

Biomass means material of biological origin excluding material embedded in geological formations and transformed into fossils [1]. Human beings have been using biomass as an energy source for thousands of years [2]. In most developing nations, biomass is the primary energy source [3]. Traditional biomass energy dominates national energy statistics in many developing countries, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, with serious adverse effects on the environment and human health [4]. Also where demand is growing at a rate of 3.3% annually and over 27% of wood fuel is often used unsustainable, over 3.5 million hectares of forest are lost and degraded each year [5]. Ethiopia's energy consumption is strongly skewed toward biomass energy due to several factors, such as severe poverty, limited access to renewable energy sources, and antiquated technology [6].

In developing nations like Ethiopia, energy usage and quality of life are closely related [7]. Presently almost 80% of Ethiopians reside in rural areas where grid power is still not readily available and traditional biomass is still the main source of residential energy [8]. The primary biomass energy source in rural Ethiopia is firewood, which accounts for 77% of the country's yearly energy needs other notable biomass energy sources are cow dung cake (13%), crop residue (9%), and charcoal (1%) almost there is no renewable energy utilization [9].

Increased biomass energy production exaggerates the risk of exposing conservation areas, contaminating water sources, and lowering food security [10]. Relying on unrestricted gathering and burning of traditional biomass energy sources such as wood, dung, and agricultural waste for cooking, heating, and lighting leads to health problems and low productivity [4]. Burning and utilizing traditional biomass as energy sources also, aggravate land degradation, reduce yield, and cause for vicious circle of poverty [8].

This systematic review aims to review the previous studies on the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on the socio-economic and environmental sustainability development of rural society in Ethiopia with their finding and policy implications to fix the problems.

2 Methods

This section tries to demonstrate the methods used to find journals, the search strategies, the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the information sources, the evaluation of high-quality studies, and the data analysis. A researcher can find and examine themes in the data with the help of thematic analysis. This systematic review was therefore created by compiling and integrating the results of empirical research carried out in various regions of Ethiopia.

2.1 Data source

The primary scientific databases, including Web of Science, Journal of Citation Report, Scopus, Google Scholar, Citation Tracing, and Science Direct, were extensively searched for relevant literature to conduct this systematic review. Thus, information from chosen articles and journals was retrieved using inclusion and exclusion criteria, mostly based on the papers' degree of relevance to the study topic, publishing year, and study area. Studies were filtered out for inclusion in the review process based on the use of specified key terms and phrases related to the subject being studied. Articles on the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on the rural society of Ethiopia have been taken into account during the selection procedure.

2.2 Inclusion criteria

The systematic review applied many criteria, including publication time, similarity, kind, and scope, to integrate linked articles. The reviews that are taken into consideration have certain qualities, such as their relevance to the review's goal, their conduct within its parameters, and their publication in a peer-reviewed journal between 2012 and 2024. Furthermore, a remarkable emphasis was placed on the research articles that emerged from the recommendations of scientific databases. Some of these articles were even chosen over others inside the same search instruments based on the journal's reputation and rankings.

2.3 Exclusion criteria

Studies conducted outside of the target area, with different objectives but similar issues, published before 2012, were not included in the systematic review. Furthermore, the review ignored journals that did not undergo peer review and were ranked poorly were excluded.

2.4 Data collection

Various data, including the author (s) 's name and publication date, the journal's name, the type and category of the publication, the study settings, the methodology, and the main conclusions, were gathered and systematically removed from the studies.

2.5 Quality assurance mechanism

"PRISMA 2009" refers to the "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses" guidelines published in 2009. These guidelines help researchers transparently report their methods and findings, ensuring clarity and consistency in systematic reviews and meta-analyses [11].

To promote the reliability and validity of the systematic review, the PRISMA 2009 [12]. A flow diagram was carefully used to support the validity and reliability of the systematic review. Issues about the review's goal, appropriate terminology, conclusiveness, inclusion/exclusion criteria, data analysis methodology, and tangible data display were strictly examined and managed, as shown in Fig. 1 below.

Fig. 1
figure 1

Flow diagram PRISMA(2009) [12]

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2.6 Articles included in the review

Only 18 of the 168 articles that were evaluated were chosen for this systematic review after accounting for all of the previously described important processes and criteria. Research carried out in the various regions of Ethiopia was fairly considered to support the validity of the study's conclusions and to strengthen the triangulation of the data collected.

Most of the publications that were part of the study were mixed, quantitative, qualitative, and case studies. However, qualitative elements were chosen for the study to be synthesized through the use of thematic analysis.

Understanding a discipline's conceptual growth is made possible by conducting a periodic systematic review of the field of study. The purpose of this systematic review is to re-evaluate the past, understand the present, and predict the future Effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on the rural society of Ethiopia by systematically examining traditional biomass energy research publications published during the last 10 years. The contents of each publication were examined using collective and thematic content analyses. The current study highlights the key issues and trends of research on the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization over the past ten years, offering current insight into the literature on these topics. The study was focused on the effects, of traditional biomass energy utilization on the socioeconomic development of society.

2.7 Theoretical and conceptual framework

Traditional biomass energy could in theory be an important source of energy, for many developing countries. In practice, however, it usually brings negative economic, social, and ecological effects at large. Market supply, access to gird, Effective promotion and government support to transition from traditional to renewable energy utilization are expected to reduce the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization in rural parts of Ethiopia (Fig. 2).

Fig. 2
figure 2

Source: Own data review (2024)

Conceptual framework.

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3 Results

The following tables show us detailed studies about the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on the socio-economic and environmental sustainability development of rural societies at different times within different parts of Ethiopia (Table 1).

Table 1 Objectives and methods of the studies with their characteristics of the eighteen selected articles.
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The following table shows the main findings with actual status, potentials and challenges of biomass energy utilization within eighteen selected articles about the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on the socio-economic development of rural society in different times within different parts of Ethiopia (Table 2).

Table 2 Findings of the studies of selected articles.
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3.1 General overview of Ethiopian energy use trends

3.1.1 Energy resource potential and consumption pattern in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has enormous potential for biomass, geothermal, wind, solar, and hydro energy when compared to the potential availability, the exploration rate was low. However, several obstacles prevented this renewable energy from developing further. Barriers are categorized as non-technical, policy and regulation, and technical skills [28].

3.1.2 Renewable energy source and utilization levels in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the African nations rich in underutilized energy resources. primarily from hydro energy (96%), followed by wind energy (4%). Additionally, 11% of the total electricity output is exported. Currently, the total final renewable energy consumption is approximately 40,000 GWh, with 92% allocated to domestic appliances, 4% to the transport sector, 3% to industry, and 1% to other uses [29]. The primary source of energy supply is bioenergy, much of which for domestic use comes from unsustainable sources [30] (Fig. 3).

Fig. 3
figure 3

Source: Own data review (2024)

Ethiopia's renewable energy sources, production capacity and export level.

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As the figure shows Hydroelectric power in Ethiopia accounts for 96% of total renewable energy whereas wind accounts for 4% in total 11% of electric power is exported (Fig. 4).

Fig. 4
figure 4

Source: Own data review (2024)

Renewable energy utilization level in Ethiopia.

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As the figure shows from total renewable energy consumption domestic appliances account for 92% of consumption of renewable energy in Ethiopia whereas the Transport sector accounts for only 4% 3 for industry consumption and 1 for other.

3.1.3 Source of energy and utilization level in Ethiopia

The majority of their energy comes from traditional biomass sources, such as burning wood, manure, and agricultural waste, which they use for cooking, heating, and even lighting. Even in explicitly grid-connected areas, the energy demand is rising in tandem with the development of energy sources and the rate at which power is generated to deliver energy sources to rural households across the nation that are not linked to the national electricity grid [30]. Ethiopian rural families consume around 5 to 7 GJ of usable energy per year for cooking. This number is characteristic in most developing-country rural locations. Until recently, wood was utilized to meet cooking demands, but due to continuing deforestation, communities have switched to using agricultural leftovers (straw and manure) as an energy source. The resources required to meet the cooking needs are determined by the conversion technique utilized [31].

As Fig. 5 shows in rural Ethiopia, firewood dominates traditional biomass energy use, accounting for an impressive 76%. Charcoal follows with 8%, while dung cake contributes 7%. Electricity plays a role at 5%, and crop residue accounts for 2%. Notably, liquid petroleum gas and kerosene each make up 1% of the energy mix.

Fig. 5
figure 5

Source: Own data review (2024)

Source of Energy and utilization in rural areas of Ethiopia.

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Fig. 6
figure 6

Source: Own data review (2024)

Traditional Biomass Energy in Ethiopia.

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3.1.4 Sources of traditional biomass energy in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is the third-largest consumer of traditional fuels in the world, with 96% of the population relying on biomass fuels to meet their energy needs. Examples of these fuels include firewood, charcoal, agricultural waste, and animal dung [32]. As energy, traditional biomass is the main source in many underdeveloped nations. Over 92% of Ethiopia's energy is produced from the traditional burning of biomass. Different environmental and socioeconomic effects have resulted from this and the development of alternative biomass energy technologies is highly demanded in Ethiopia; as traditional biomass is still the dominant energy source in all sectors [23]. Accordingly, Firewood (7%), followed by cow dung cake (13%), agricultural wastes (9%), and charcoal (1%) [9] (Fig. 6).

Ethiopia has also a high potential for many alternative energy sources, but there is limited access to electricity because the majority of the population lives in rural areas due to the country's dispersed population pattern [4].

Traditional biomass energy sources provide a large portion of Ethiopia's national energy requirements, Cooking, lighting, space heating, and transportation are some of these needs and the majority of household energy requirements in rural areas come from this, specifically the need for energy for cooking [9].

The need for energy for cooking accounts for the majority of household energy requirements in rural areas, and the main energy sources are biomass, petroleum, and electricity, which together account for 92%, 7%, and 1% of total energy [4].

Approximately 80% of Ethiopians currently reside in rural areas where traditional biomass is still the primary source of domestic energy and grid electricity is still not widely available. Firewood, charcoal, crop byproducts, and animal dung are examples of traditional energy sources. The usage of biomass energy had several negative implications, from environmental damage that contributed to food poverty to the health effects of fuel handling and combustion emissions [8].

3.2 The effects of traditional biomass energy utilization on socio-economic development

Depend on biomass energy may put consumer women in particular at risk for mental and physical health problems because, when women use biomass fuel to prepare meals, they are exposed to pollutants, which can cause respiratory issues and other health problems in addition, women may encounter additional risks and hazards related to poor health and/or suffering while harvesting biomass fuel [33]. Ethiopia's rural population relies on biomass to provide their daily energy demands, except for lighting among other things, the old approach wastes a significant amount of energy that may be used in other ways, especially when cooking. They also significantly contribute to the depletion of natural resources, pose serious health risks, and have detrimental economic effects [14]. The energy demand is rising at the moment in the rural area and the supply of power needs to keep up with the demand. Ethiopia's existing reliance on traditional biomass energy sources affects social economic and environmental sustainability [4].

3.3 The economic benefits of biomass

The effective management and conversion of biomass waste into fertilizers have demonstrated significant benefits for soil health and plant growth, while also making a substantial contribution to reducing the carbon footprint. It is essential to develop more efficient management processes to fully harness the valuable compounds that can be extracted from this biomass waste and to advance the commercialization of bio-based products derived from bio-waste [34]. The implementation of bio-fertilizer-based systems has effectively lowered the reliance on mineral fertilizers, leading to a reduction in their production costs [34]. Decreasing the costs associated with purchasing firewood, kerosene, and chemical fertilizers has allowed biogas generation to increase household income. Smaller biogas plants have proven to be more profitable than their larger counterparts. Notably, installations funded under the subsidy program are significantly more economically viable at a 10% discount rate compared to other options. To enhance investment in biogas plants, particularly larger ones, subsidies are essential. However, without subsidies, both sizes of plants showed lower net present value and longer payback periods exceeding a year, rendering them less financially viable. Affordable plant installations could encourage greater participation among rural households with limited financial resources. Nevertheless, at a 10% discount rate, both plant sizes (6 m3 and 8 m3) remain profitable and financially feasible [35].

3.4 Determining factors for traditional biomass energy utilization.

The main factors influencing household energy choices have been their inadequate awareness of the negative effects of traditional biomass energy consumption and their poor socioeconomic status [36]. Traditional biomass sources have been extensively used for purposes of fuel [37].

Household characteristics such as family size and the age-sex composition of members and household assets such as livestock and land size both had an impact on the decision to use dung as fuel and manure, indicating the significance of asset, product, and labor market inefficiencies, fuel usage was also influenced by the type of stove and the distance to towns are the most factors affecting for traditional biomass utilization [38]. Socioeconomic status of the population does, however, have an impact on the use of efficient energy sources. It was discovered that a significant portion of the population uses traditional biomass fuels for heating and cooking and electricity for light. Additionally, gas's efficiency and environmental friendliness were the main reasons why most people selected it over biomass fuels [39].

3.5 Ethiopian energy policy implementation strategy

The 1994 Energy Policy is presently being revised to better match it with the National Green Legacy Initiative, the Economic Reform Strategy, and the Ethiopia 10-Year Development Plan of the government. The revision aims to incorporate a stronger focus on off-grid energy as a sustainable way to supply electricity to about 35% of households, rather than just a stopgap measure while the grid is being expanded. Although the policy was intended to be updated regularly, it has only been updated three times in the past 24 years and has never been formally approved or implemented [40].

Ethiopia wants to build a green economy and reach middle-income status by 2025. The government has created a plan to create a green economy to prevent these detrimental effects. It is now beginning to put the plan into practice and welcomes cooperation from both domestic and foreign partners [41]. There is merit in letting the anticipated geographical increase of energy demand dictate system selection, as this may not necessitate mini-grid and off-grid systems to have a transitory function in the nation's electrical industry. Effective policy execution to promote a high market composition of efficient, user-friendly technologies would be a key enabler of uptake. Efficient consumer technology can significantly lessen the stress on Ethiopia's electrical grid. Our study of the country's renewable mini-grid governance and regulation found that strengthening local institutions would be necessary to support the efficient execution of regulations [42].

The goal of the energy policy is to encourage the transition from traditional biomass to new energy sources and to guarantee a steady supply of energy. The program prioritized developing the nation's renewable resources, especially hydropower, and moving away from conventional energy sources and toward more contemporary ones, mostly biomass fuels. In homes for cooking to contemporary fuels), institutional growth, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and private sector involvement [43].

4 Conclusion and policy recommendation

This systematic review analyzed the effects of traditional biomass energy utilization in rural areas of Ethiopia. The review was analyzing different papers done in different parts of Ethiopia that related to biomass energy utilization. The systematic review applied many criteria, including publication time, similarity, kind, and scope, to integrate linked articles. The reviews that are taken into consideration have certain qualities, such as their relevance to the review's goal, their conduct within its parameters, and their publication in a peer-reviewed journal between 2012 and 2024. Various data, including the name and publication date of the author(s), the name of the journal, the type and category of the publication, the study settings, the methodology, and the main conclusions, were gathered and systematically removed from the studies. To promote the reliability and validity of the systematic review, the PRISMA 2009 flow diagram was carefully used to support the validity and reliability of the systematic review. Only 18 of the 168 articles that were evaluated were chosen for this systematic review after accounting for all of the previously described important processes and criteria.

The findings of this systematic review reveal that traditional biomass energy remains the primary energy source in rural communities. This dependence on traditional biomass is largely influenced by several factors, including limited access to energy markets, disconnection from the electrical grid, inadequate government intervention, and economic barriers that impede the adoption of alternative renewable energy options. Consequently, this reliance has notable socio-economic impacts, such as health issues and financial burdens related to traditional energy use, as well as environmental sustainability challenges, including deforestation, land degradation, decreased productivity, and soil erosion in the rural society of Ethiopia.

5 Policy recommendations

  • The effective and efficient utilization of alternative renewable energy sources, alongside a reduction in dependence on traditional biomass energy. This can be achieved by connecting the grid, supplying solar and wind energy, and enhancing the accessibility of energy transformation and infrastructure in the rural areas of Ethiopia.

  • Additionally, promoting and integrating biogas technology into various development initiatives is advised. The government should prioritize the advancement and promotion of renewable energy sources.

  • Learning from the experiences of developed nations can provide valuable insights, but any approaches must be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the study region and Ethiopia as a whole.

  • Furthermore, it is essential to create training programs for engineers, artisans, users, and other professionals involved in the distribution of biogas. A thorough understanding of the relationship between plant size and capital costs can yield valuable information for assessing the financial feasibility of biogas facilities and aid in decision-making for new project development.

  • Finally, it is crucial to Educate the community about the detrimental social and economic consequences of relying on traditional biomass energy, which is sourced from firewood, dung, and agricultural waste.