Scottish Wildfire Emergency: The Inevitable Result of Irrational Policy

Scottish firefighters and local land managers have been battling severe wildfires across the Highlands for a third day, with the blazes posing serious threats to human life, wildlife, peatland habitats and community resources.

We recognise the deep respect upland communities hold for traditional land stewardship. Our members work tirelessly to balance habitat management - through tools like controlled burning and managed grazing - with protection of public safety and peatland integrity.

These terrible wildfires are a stark reminder of the mounting risks when, due to irrational policies being implemented, fuel is allowed to build up on the hills and dry conditions compound climate change impacts.

Our longstanding guidance on controlled burning emphasises early-season removal of rank heather and scrub to reduce fire hazard. Such practices create strategic fire breaks, support biodiversity, and maintain healthy peatland structures.

Evidence shows well-timed controlled burns reduce wildfire intensity and spread - an essential complement to rapid firefighting efforts.

We stand firmly with Scottish land managers and emergency responders at this critical juncture and we urge all governments to maintain practical, evidence-based moorland management policies - including support for controlled burning and grazing.

Further Reading

• Our Draft Position Statement on Controlled Burning