Abstract Background In the Himalayan region, fuelwood serves as a critical energy source for rural communities. Being vital for meeting energy needs, fuelwood combustion is a source of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emission and, consequently, global warming, as well as deforestation and public health damage. Therefore, quantifying fuelwood consumption patterns and its associated CO₂ emissions is essential to understand the environmental impact and promote sustainable resource management. Methods This research conducts an evaluation of fuelwood burning patterns and the associated CO₂ emissions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), situated within the western Himalayan region. The study entails an extensive survey of 24 villages representing 240 households, equally distributed between the subtropical and temperate regions, each comprising 120 households. Data collection was executed through a combination of direct queries and the weight survey method, following standard protocols. Results In the study area, the mean annual fuelwood comsumption per household amounts to 24.28 ± 3.1 Mg (or 3.195 ± 1 Mg capita⁻¹). A variance was observed between subtropical and temperate zones, with the latter exhibiting higher consumption rates. The consequential CO₂ emissions were assessed as 41.88 ± 4.5 Mg per household (5.51 ± 0.6 Mg capita⁻¹). On a daily basis, households consumed an average of 66.52 ± 6.4 kg of fuelwood (8.75 ± 1.5 kg capita⁻¹), resulting in a daily CO₂ release rate of 114.745 ± 8.6 kg (15.095 ± 2 kg capita⁻¹). The findings unveiled seasonal variations, indicating increased fuelwood consumption and emissions during the winter season. Statistical analysis shed light on the significance of altitude and family size in shaping the patterns of fuelwood use. Conclusions The results revealed the importance of prioritizing forest conservation and strategically implementing sustainable practices, including reforestation, afforestation, responsible harvesting, and actively promoting sustainable fuel sources. This research highlights the vital role of well-designed policies focused on preserving ecosystems and improving energy management. Policy intervention can ensure the sustainable stewardship of local and regional forest resources.