Controlled Burning

Dr Andreas Heinemeyer’s long-term research challenges assumptions about moorland burning, showing that evidence - not opinion - must guide peatland management decisions.

The Moorland Association has filed for Judicial Review against Defra’s 2025 burning regulations. Read the grounds of our claim and what happens next.

A recently circulated internal Natural England email highlights the challenges of maintaining transparent, evidence-led decision-making.

Controlled heather burning prevents catastrophic wildfires and protects peat. Here's what the science actually says about this misunderstood practice.

Brazil’s Cerrado is reintroducing controlled burning after a ban led to severe wildfires. This summary explains what went wrong and how planned fire protects people and habitats.

England’s moorlands face rising wildfire danger as fuel loads soar after a 73% drop in controlled burning. Active fuel management offers the only sustainable path to prevent disaster.

Scottish Fire Chief Bruce Farquharson explains why controlled burning is vital for preventing wildfires, protecting peatlands, and supporting firefighter safety.

New research shows that ending grouse moor management and rising temperatures could cause major declines in red grouse, curlew and golden plover populations.

New research reveals how fragmented wildfire governance leaves the UK unprepared for rising fire risks, and why closer cooperation is urgently needed.

The State of Wildfires 2024–2025 report reveals that controlled burning, rooted in traditional and scientific practice, is vital to prevent devastating wildfires.

Controlled burning of Scotland's moorlands protects peat and prevents wildfires. Discover why muirburn might be essential for fighting climate change.

The House of Lords debated the government's new restrictions around controlled burning on deep peat on Thursday 30th October 2025. We have summarised the debate here.