Among the causes of fires there are also CO2 emissions which, by fueling photosynthesis, make fuel more abundant.
The increase of emissions I say2 is one of the consequences of the multiplication of firesbut, according to a recent study, it would also be among them causes. The WorkPosted in Communications Earth & Environment, used various models to show that the production of this greenhouse gas does nothing but encourage the proliferation of fuel for the flames. Now stem the root problem appears even more important.
What are the causes of fires? The role of emissions
To show that CO emissions2 can be included among the causes of fires, a team from the University of California, Riverside. The researchers highlighted that the connection lies in the role that carbon dioxide plays in the process photosynthesis. With the latter, plants use water, sunlight and their own carbon dioxide to produce glucose, therefore nourishment, and oxygen.
The increase in emissions is, therefore, in a certain sense, acting as a catalyst fertilizer and, in some areas, the amount of vegetation present increases. Under certain conditions the proliferation of plants causes the flames to find material to feed on and the fires end burn larger areas of land. This is also true because to enjoy the CO levels2 taller ones are often particularly vegetal flammable.
The study on causes of fires and emissions
The researchers showed, with simulations computerized that allow evaluation separately the parameter of interest, which is CO emissions2 can encourage the outbreak of violent fires. Within the models the team therefore assumed, ideally, a increase I say2 in the stratosphere by 1% per year since 1850.
Looking at the results, one of the most important changes to evaluate consists in the loss of meaning of the concept of “fire season”. In fact, it appears clear that the development of excess fuel allows the flames to give rise to phenomena out of range even in periods once considered to be at moderate risk. The fire of Smokehouse Creek which in February 2024 sent over a million acres up in smoke in Texas, becoming the largest fire in the state’s history, proves it.
Emissions: from the causes to the consequences of fires
The new study opens important perspectives on the causes of fires and the role of CO emissions2.
In light of recent considerations, the correct one management of the territory by the authorities becomes even more important. In order for the flames not to find fertile ground, it is necessary to keep the flames under control vegetation.
It is also essential to reduce the carbon emissions capable of fueling a vicious circle. Furthermore, scientists have underlined that the role of climate change in giving rise to off-scale phenomena must not be questioned. Periods of Drought prolonged and strong winds in fact, they only fuel the fires.
The causes of fires are different and CO emissions also play a role2 it makes the view even more complex. The increase in the amount of carbon introduced into the atmosphere also remains one of the consequences of the blaze of fires. The substances also remain a cause for concern pollutants that smoke is capable of spreading.
