One of the major news items in the past 12 months has been forest fires. This month alone, there have been some fatal forest fires in the USA. These fire incidents have initiated the conversation about fire and the human efforts in minimizing the effects. It is, however, important to note that in all these discussions, there is one unison agreement that the best humans can do is to diversify means to contain the effects and the spread of forest fires.
The following piece is a comprehensive outline of fire effects and some remedies.
Forest fires cause soil erosion
Wildfire-caused erosion is one of the most studied effects of wildfires over the last two decades. In all these studies, one factor has been consistent; the long-term impact of fires on the surface has a deadly spiral impact. The studies acknowledge the importance of soil topography in containing the environmental changes. In addition, a free erosion world is not only productive, but it is also sustainable. The wildfire effect on erosion can spread over a long period, sometimes to centuries. This nature of impact calls for a well-thought remedy that is not only efficient but also sustainable.
The best way to reverse this sad reality of erosion is by using revegetation conservation seed products. The most iconic aspect of this remedy is the availability of many seed types and, therefore, a wider variety of different soil types. This approach is not only an effective way to control wildfire-caused erosion but also sustainable.
Loss of life and properties-possible solutions
The economic aspect of forest fires is one of the most discussed points by the mainstream media. Vegetation, worth billions of dollars, is destroyed every year by forest fires. It is important also to consider the enormous amount of budgets the firefighting bodies are allocated each fiscal year. The measures taken are pricey for the taxpayers. Many pundits have debated the best ways to curb economic losses caused by forest fires. It is, however, important to appreciate that there are many ways of controlling financial damages caused by forest fires.
First, local authorities need to amend the already existing legislation on fireworks and other (human) causes of forest fires. Studies indicate that humans are the number one cause of forest fires, followed by natural causes, such as lighting. Second, it is crucial for the local governments to improve their response to forest fires. If the fires are handled in their early stages, huge economic losses can be avoided. In addition, the local governments should make fire reporting more efficient for the locals.
Air pollution and possible solutions
Global warming is currently one of the most discussed topics in major world forums, such as the United Nations. Forest fires are one of the major causes of air pollution, primarily due to gases emitted. Apart from forest fires destroying the only natural air purifier, it is also one of the causes of an increase of poisonous gases in the atmosphere. Correcting this reality by technical means, according to environmental pundits, is not only expensive but also not fully effective.
Fortunately, planting new vegetation is the cheapest and the most effective way to reverse air pollution. While planting new vegetation, it is essential to pay attention to the growth rate of the new vegetation, and if the new vegetation can adapt to the environment of the area. These two factors not only determine the timeframe for growing a new ‘natural purifier’ but also the environmental sustainability of the plants planted.
The biodiversity effect and the possible solutions
Biodiversity and changes in the ecosystems are arguably one of the major losses caused by these fires. Changes in the ecosystem are also one of the hardest concepts to quantify in any forest fire incident. This complexity leaves many professional speculations in an attempt to explain the losses in terms of numbers. Regardless of the thought, the spiral effect on biodiversity is always at the center stage.
There are many possible solutions to the biodiversity effect on forest fires. First, it is essential for the local authorities to increase the budget allocations to firefighting entities. Reasonable budget is a one-step to a better response to fire menace. The local governments need to invest a section of their budgets in carrying out civic education on the importance of taking care of forest areas, reporting fire incidents, and any suspicious activities in forest locations. In addition, biodiversity is complex and restoring sustainability through planting vegetation is essential.
Some other effects of forest fires, such as loss of lives, especially to the people containing fires, are common. It is important to train these professionals well and provide them with modern equipment.
