pyrocene, a term referring to the ancient “age of fire”, It is an alarming reality that we face today. Our planet is being consumed by catastrophic fires, prolonged droughts, and extreme temperatures. This phenomenon is not entirely natural: it is, in fact, the result of human activity and climate change.
Causes of pyrocin
In the origin of the Pyrocene, the new age of fire in which we will be immersed, there are many, often interconnected, causes. Of course it should be noted It is a controversial term in the scientific community and there is no general consensus. Here we explain the four main reasons for this phenomenon.
weather changes
Rising global temperatures are caused by climate change Drier conditions last longer, creating a favorable environment for fires. Changing weather patterns, such as El Niño, can lead to severe droughts and an increase in the frequency and intensity of forest fires.
Human activities
Deforestation and expansion of urban areas increase the amount of fuel available for fires. Inappropriate agricultural and animal practices, as well as the burning of biomass, can also start fires.
Man-made fires
Human negligenceFires such as improper management of outdoor fires, careless disposal of cigarette butts, or inadequate equipment can cause fires. Other activities such as building camps and making fires without taking adequate precautions can also start wildfires.
Natural factors
Lightning is a natural source of fire. When lightning is combined with dry weather conditions, it can cause fires. Dry vegetation and dead leaves accumulate as a natural fuel that can be ignited by electric sparks.
These are the consequences
The age of pyrocene, the age of fire in which we find ourselves, has profound and global consequences. These consequences range from biodiversity loss and threats to human health to impacts on climate change and the economy. In this brief summary, we will briefly analyze these impacts to understand the urgency of addressing this global challenge.
Loss of biodiversity
Forest fires destroy natural habitats Many animal and plant species threaten and displace local fauna and flora, affecting the ecological balance.
The wildfire situation in Canada can only be described as unprecedented in modern times. The seasonal spatial area burned is now 16.4 million hectares. This is more than double (+116%) the previous modern record set in 1989 (7.6 million hectares). Data records began in 1959. pic.twitter.com/k1Mso7IHdl
– Steve Bowen (@SteveBowenWx) September 5, 2023
Effects on human health
Air pollution caused by fires affects air quality, This increases the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, which affect people’s health, especially in areas close to fires.
Contributing to climate change
Fires emit large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere, Contribute to global warming and create a vicious circle with conditions for more fires due to high temperatures and prolonged drought.
Impact on natural resources and the economy
Fires destroy natural resources such as forests, fertile soil, and water bodies. This caused economic losses due to the destruction of property and the cessation of economic activities, which increases the pressure on the resources allocated to fighting fires.
Pyrocene: an inevitable future?
If we do not take drastic action, pyrocene may become a real future. Rampant deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and irresponsible management of our natural resources are exacerbating this crisis. And devastating wildfires like the ones we witnessed this summer in the Canary Islands, Greece, California or Australia may be just the beginning.
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