Research Paper Summaries

An Australian study shows controlled burning reduces wildfire severity for several years, especially soon after burning, highlighting the need for regular, planned fuel management.

Wildfire smoke releases up to four times more harmful pollutants than traditional prescribed burns, yet current policy ignores this vital difference, risking public health.

New research shows most headstarted Curlews die within a week of release due to predation, highlighting the need for better habitat and predator management.

Scientific research confirms what experienced land managers have long known - older, taller heather burns hotter and faster. Understanding fuel load helps ensure safer, more effective controlled burning on Britain’s moorlands.

A summary of a comprehensive study on how fuel, weather, and management influence fire behaviour and regeneration on Britain’s heather moorlands.

New research shows controlled peat burning before rewetting cuts methane emissions by over 95%, disproving Natural England’s claims and supporting traditional moorland management.

Wildfires are driving a surge in deaths across the US through toxic air pollution. New research highlights why preventing large fires through active land management is vital.

New research shows UK wildfire risk is rising sharply as vegetation dries in sync, exposing Defra’s failure to act on science and rethink peatland policy.

A 2023 James Hutton Institute study shows Scotland’s uplands face rising wildfire risk, with managed burning vital to reduce fuel build-up and protect communities.

Peatland management is complex: burning and cutting both carry risks and benefits. Finding balance is key to carbon storage, water, wildlife and rural life.

A new analysis has exposed serious flaws in Natural England’s official evidence review on prescribed heather burning.

Peatlands store vast carbon, but calling them climate “saviours” is misleading. A new review shows why nuanced, site-specific evidence matters for policy.