Wildfires in Brazilian Biomes: Environmental Impacts, Policy Challenges, and Future Directions

A comprehensive analysis of wildfires in Brazil reveals that 80% of fires from 1999 to 2024 occurred in the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, primarily driven by agricultural expansion during dry seasons. These fires significantly impact ecosystems by altering soil properties, hydrological processes, carbon stocks, and erosion, with effects varying by vegetation type and burn severity. Despite efforts like Integrated Fire Management (IFM) incorporating prescribed burning and traditional knowledge, fragmented policies and resource shortages hinder effective fire management. Future strategies must prioritize coordination among science, policy, and local communities, alongside expanded remote sensing and region-specific solutions to address illegal fires and promote conservation.

Costa, Y. T., Thomaz, E. L., & Fachin, P. A. (2025). Wildfires in Brazilian Biomes: Environmental Impacts, Policy Challenges, and Future Directions. Earth: Environmental Sustainability, 1(2), 265–275. https://doi.org/10.53941/eesus.2025.100022