Wildfires

Unmanaged moorlands, characterized by heavy fuel loads and difficult access, lead to more severe, prolonged, and costly firefighting operations, often requiring extensive personnel, specialized equipment, and aerial support.

Limiting wildfire carbon emissions – through better fire prevention, rapid suppression, ecosystem restoration, and climate change mitigation – will be crucial for meeting long-term emissions targets and preserving the carbon storage functions of the world’s forests and peatlands.

Wildfire smoke far exceeds prescribed burn smoke in both quantity and harm, and that controlled burning, when used judiciously, is a net benefit for air quality and environmental protection.

There are several recent examples of the 'protection gap' from wildfires that have taken place around the world. The ‘protection gap’ refers to the difference between total economic losses from wildfires and the portion of those losses that are covered by insurance payouts.

Scotland’s largest recorded wildfire event - which scorched more than 11,800 hectares of moorland and woodland near Carrbridge and Dava - has triggered a detailed review by Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) into how land-based businesses responded.

A report, prepared by Scottish Land & Estates (SLE) for the Scottish Government, details the significant response of land-based and rural businesses to the Carrbridge and Dava wildfires in July 2025.

There has been a steep 73% reduction in fuel load management on our moors since 2021 which has greatly exacerbated the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

We've recently written to Sarah Albon, Chief Executive of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), sharing our serious concerns about wildfire risk and asking for the HSE to help prevent disaster.

Our moorlands are facing an ever-growing threat: devastating wildfires, and the situation is made worse by government policies, notably those influenced by Natural England.

The letter emphasizes our concerns regarding the deterioration of the relationship between the countryside and Natural England.

Our moorlands are facing an escalating threat: devastating wildfires. While many factors contribute to this growing risk, one often-overlooked solution lies in the age-old practice of grazing by sheep.

We're seeking feedback on our draft position statement and FAQs on controlled heather burning.