For a long time it was believed that forest fires were related to climate change through global warming, however, there is another factor that could be including even more. We are talking about an acquaintance gas which enhances the growth of plants, further causing the harmful effects of fire.
One more reason to mitigate the emissions of this gas: know its effects on forest fires
Before continuing, it is necessary that we remember one of the main gases that enhance the greenhouse effect phenomenon. This same emissions are found in combustion cars, in large industrial factories, and it is even obtained by creating electricity through certain energy sources.
We are talking about carbon dioxideis the gas that is contributing significantly to the increase in the frequency and also in the severity of forest fires that alarm the world, according to a recent study carried out by the University of California in Riverside.
This is because the excess carbon dioxide available in the atmosphere is favoring the growth of plants, on the other hand, CO2 is what is increasing the expansion of green areasthe same ones that are later burned, that is, they serve as fuel for fires.
Learn how this gas causes an increase in biomass
As we mentioned before, frequently the increase in forest fires is usually related with climate change, specifically due to the increase in hotter and drier conditions. That is why this study suggests that the effect of CO2 on plant growth may be one of the first causes in the spread of these catastrophic events.
The research mentioned above was also published in Communications Earth & Environment. In this project, a way was sought to verify that the excess carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere is increasing and accelerating the growth of plants. This was finally achieved by testing eight different experiments that supported the study.
To better understand what happens, it is necessary to keep in mind that the process of photosynthesis requires carbon dioxide so that plants have the ability to convert the sunlight they receive into food. In conclusion, the large quantities of CO2 coming from the constant burning of fossil fuels, They serve as food for nature and contributes to the growth of plants.
Plants overfed by this polluting gas are more likely to fuel forest fires, causing a greater spread of firethe same one that emits more carbon dioxide that favors the devastating greenhouse effect.
Importance in preventing forest fires
In addition to considering the effect of intense heat and lack of rain as a way to inflame vegetation, it is crucial to recognize the role of carbon dioxide (CO2) in this process. Studies carried out at the University of California ensure that the increase in this gas in question dispersed in the atmosphere can cause plants to become more flammable vegetation and prone to forest fires.
This is why it is completely important to address the major problem of CO2 emissions, as it is essential to mitigate a long list of environmental problems that affect millions of people and now adds the imminent risk of fires.
This project just represents one more reason to raise awareness about the harmful effects of carbon dioxide. For this reason, preventive measures are required worldwide, which would be essential to protect the planet and minimize risks for communities located near forest areas.
