A recent study led by the University of East Anglia has uncovered a startling increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from forest fires globally, with a 60% surge since 2001. In some northern boreal forests, emissions have nearly tripled during this period. The research categorized regions into ‘pyromes’ to identify factors driving the rise in forest fire activity. One of the largest pyromes covering boreal forests in Eurasia and North America saw emissions from fires almost triple between 2001 and 2023. The increase in emissions is attributed to fire-favorable weather conditions like heatwaves and droughts, as well as enhanced forest growth creating more vegetation fuels, accelerated by rapid warming in high northern latitudes.
The study further highlights a concerning escalation in the extent and severity of forest wildfires over the last two decades. The rate of carbon combustion, which measures fire severity based on carbon emission per unit of area burned, increased by nearly 50% across global forests between 2001 and 2023. To protect critical forest ecosystems from this growing threat, urgent action is needed to curb global warming and progress towards achieving net-zero emissions. The study’s lead author emphasizes the importance of addressing the primary causes of climate change, such as fossil fuel emissions, to prevent further expansion of forest fires.
Forests play a vital role in storing carbon, with their growth helping to offset CO2 emissions and combat global warming. Reforestation and afforestation initiatives are crucial for removing carbon from the atmosphere and mitigating human-induced emissions. However, the success of these schemes hinges on preserving carbon stored in forests, which is threatened by wildfires. Extratropical fires are now emitting half a billion more tonnes of CO2 annually than two decades ago, posing challenges to achieving global climate targets. The authors stress the need to address the growing vulnerability of forests to fires and the impact on long-term carbon storage.
The study reveals a shift in the global geography of fires, with forest fires on the rise while savannah grassland fires have decreased since 2001. Forest fires burn more intensely and release higher levels of harmful smoke, posing significant risks to communities near and far from fire-affected areas. The findings challenge the belief that a reduction in overall area burned globally indicates decreased wildfire impact. The researchers emphasize the need for strategic forest management, stakeholder engagement, and public education to transition from reactive to proactive fire management approaches. Monitoring forest productivity and managing fuel loads in fire-prone areas during favorable weather conditions are key strategies to limit the severity and impact of fires.
Employing machine learning techniques, the researchers grouped forest ecoregions into distinct pyromes to analyze the effects of climate change on forest fires. This approach allowed for a better understanding of which strategies could be most effective in mitigating wildfires and protecting forests. The study underscores the importance of substantial investment in forest management programs, stakeholder involvement, and public awareness to address the increasing threat of forest fires. The authors stress the need for proactive monitoring of forest conditions, particularly in extratropical regions, to define priority areas for forest management and fire prevention strategies. By taking proactive measures, it is possible to limit the severity and impact of wildfires and safeguard critical ecosystems from the growing risks posed by forest fires.