Using the right kind of fire means “ensuring the right amount, pattern, and timing of fire in landscapes that need it and less fire in those that do not’.
Traditionally, humans have had an excellent understanding of this, and created controlled, small-scale fires on lands.
The giant sequoias of California, the U.S., are among the largest and oldest trees on our planet. Sadly, just last year, “as many as 3,600 giant sequoias, which is approximately 5 percent of large trees in the population” perished in wildfires. Almost throughout the year, some part of the globe appears to be experiencing loss due to wildfires of late. Such a loss is not isolated anymore; it is particularly worrying that both the frequency and the intensity of such fires are increasing. But the complete prevention of fires is not an answer to this growing problem because, as we know, wildfires are essential for ecosystems to thrive. So, what can be done? Come, let’s find out.
It has been reported that across the world, over 4,400 species of trees face threats from wildfires, most of them as a result of human activity. Even as climate change intensifies, researchers are looking into creating the “right” kind of fire. What is that? It means we understand how to manage fire in the correct way, “ensuring the right amount, pattern, and timing of fire in landscapes that need it and less fire in those that do not’. Traditionally, humans have had an excellent understanding of this, and created controlled, small-scale fires on lands to help in the regeneration of vegetation. One of the important ways of managing fire would be by dipping into such native wisdom.
Along with this, scientific data could be gathered and experiments carried out to understand how to tackle future wildfires. Also, in places where it is possible, employ “green firebreaks” -fire-resistant moss and low-flammability crops that bring down the intensity of the fires. Such measures go a long way in keeping ecosystems thriving while protecting native wildlife – both plants and animals. While these are sensible steps, what is more essential is to focus on changes to our lifestyle in a way that does not harm our environment.
Picture Credit : Google
