Peatland Fires

Why in News?

Prolonged wildfires in Indonesia have triggered a major environmental and humanitarian crisis, spreading toxic smog across at least eight countries. The fires have severely reduced visibility and pushed air pollution levels to hazardous levels in several locations, including Indonesian Borneo and Singapore.

About Peatland Fires

• Peatlands: These are wetland ecosystems where partially decomposed plant material accumulates over long periods, forming carbon-rich organic soil known as peat.
• How peat fires occur: When peatlands dry out, often due to drainage or prolonged dry weather, the peat becomes highly combustible. Fires can smoulder underground and spread through layers of organic soil.
• Difficult to extinguish: Peat fires may continue burning below the surface even when visible flames are absent, making detection and suppression difficult.
• Smoke and pollutants: Peat fires can release large quantities of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, methane, sulphur dioxide and organic carbon, contributing to severe air pollution.
• Transboundary haze: Winds can carry smoke across national borders, affecting air quality, public health, visibility and economic activities in neighbouring countries.

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