AIR- Combating Forest Fires in Intense Heatwave | Gist of Rajya Sabha TV / RSTV (now Sansad TV) - UPSC PDF Download

Forest Fire

• Forest fires, also known as bush or vegetation fires or wildfires, refer to uncontrolled combustion of plants in natural settings like forests, grasslands, or brushlands. These fires consume natural fuels and spread based on environmental conditions.
• A wildfire sustains combustion with three essential elements: Fuel, Oxygen, and a Heat source.

Causes of Forest Fires

• Extreme weather conditions like record-breaking temperatures, extended drought, and strong winds create disastrous fire conditions.
• Heat waves and drought lead to increased temperatures and dry conditions, making vegetation more susceptible to catching fire.
• Drought affects agricultural areas, contributing to the spread of fires.

Economic and Social Benefits of Forests

• Forests play a crucial role in water conservation, benefitting farmers and future generations.
• Forests provide cultural and environmental benefits, such as carbon storage and climate change mitigation.
• Tree roots help in flood prevention by enhancing the ground's water absorption capacity.
• Forests offer natural medicines, economic contributions, and recreational opportunities.

Effects of Forest Fires on Biodiversity

• Forest fires impact global water sources and contribute to carbon emissions, affecting biodiversity and global warming.
• They alter ecosystems, change biomass stocks, and influence plant and animal species.
• Smoke from fires can reduce photosynthetic activity and harm human and animal health.
• Repeated burns impoverish biodiversity in rainforest ecosystems and lead to ecological imbalances.

Australia Fires and Climate Change

• Australia's fires are exacerbated by climate change, with rising CO2 levels contributing to hotter and drier conditions.
• Scientists predict more frequent and intense fires due to extreme weather patterns and higher temperatures.

Impact of Australian Fires

• Short and long-term impacts of fires include devastating effects on wildlife and ecosystems.
• Loss of habitat, stress, and direct harm to various species threaten biodiversity.
• Displacements and alterations in entire ecosystems pose challenges for species survival.