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Global population exposure to wildfires rises 40% in 20 years
A recent study published in the American scientific journal Science reveals that global population exposure to wildfires has increased by 40% over the past two decades. Between 2002 and 2021, forest fires threatened approximately 440 million people worldwide.
The study highlights that demographic changes account for around 25% of this increased exposure. While wildfires in North America, Europe, and Oceania have drawn the most media attention, researchers emphasize that 85% of global exposures occurred in Africa.
Climate change has also played a major role, with a 54% increase in extreme weather conditions conducive to fires. The study notes that 1.53 million deaths per year are attributable to air pollution caused by landscape fires.
Human activity is another significant factor. Intentional and accidental human-caused fires account for 84% of all wildfires in the United States and over 90% in Mediterranean Europe.
Interestingly, despite the increase in population exposure, burned areas have decreased by 26% over the same period, thanks to improved wildfire management and control measures.