Wildfires

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

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.

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

How UK policies restricting controlled burns are creating tinderbox moorlands and what the science says about preventing catastrophic wildfires.

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.

Farmers, firefighters, and volunteers joined forces to battle the vast Langdale Moor wildfire, saving homes and uniting the North York Moors community.

Controlled burning protects moorlands from catastrophic wildfires, safeguards carbon-rich peat, and supports wildlife, evidence shows it’s a vital, science-based tool.

The UK’s 2025 wildfires burned 46,000 hectares and released 1.3 million tonnes of CO₂, equal to 890,000 cars, turning peatlands from carbon sinks into carbon sources.