
Scotland's wildfire hotspots identified in new analysis
The report uses a combination of drough modelling and fire spread analysis to provide insight into potential danger zones.
Scotland has emerged as the UK's leading hub for nature-based and engineered carbon projects, with nearly 30 million tonnes of CO2e emissions expected to be prevented over the lifetime of projects under the leading Woodland and Peatland Carbon Code schemes.
The study highlights how reduced precipitation and prolonged dry spells during June and July this year have created pockets of extreme dryness across the country and alongside wind direction and other environmental factors, it has increased the likelihood of fire ignition by two-fold and the fires can spread by 30% more.
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The fire at Carrbridge had multiple ignition points and the conditions led to more than 11,000 hectares being burned.
Bilal Hussain, Co-Founder and CEO at Artio, commented: 'Scotland plays a pivotal role in the UK's carbon ecosystem, with its woodland and peatland projects providing vital natural climate solutions.
'However, for these projects to succeed and deliver long-term climate benefits, they must be underpinned by robust planning and proactive management.
'By mapping where vulnerabilities are greatest, we can enable better decision-making, attract sustained investment and protect the communities that depend on them.'
Wildfire fire warnings have been shared by authorities on a number of occasions in recent months.
Scotland's wildfire risk has been analysed (Image: Artio) Scotland's wildfire risk has been analysed (Image: Artio)
Other areas that were heavily affected included the Isle of Arran as well as one in the Trossachs where a disposable barbecue was blamed.
Over the course of one weekend in April, fire crews were called out to battle 90 wildfires across the country.
Speaking at the time, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour - Head of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness at SFRS - said: "Wildfires have the potential to burn for days, as we've seen in Dumfries and Galloway, and they spread through vast areas of land in our countryside, which is devastating for those who live nearby.
"Our firefighters will continue to work with local landowners and other partners to bring these fires under control.
"As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire, and so we are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame.
"Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely in rural environments and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code."
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