How are peat fires caused?

Droughts, drainage, and changes in land use are likely the main causes that lead to the high flammability conditions of dry peat lands. Possible ignition events can be natural (e.g., lightning, self-heating, and volcanic eruption) or anthropogenic (land management, accidental ignition, and arson).

Why are peat fires so difficult to put out?

Peat has a high carbon content and is naturally porous. Therefore, once dry, peat areas are highly vulnerable to ignition and the resulting fires are almost impossible to extinguish without re-establishing natural groundwater levels.

When peat burns what is released?

When peat – which is a natural reservoir of carbon – burns, it releases up to 100 times more carbon per burn area into the atmosphere than non-peat fires. Worldwide, peat fires account for millions of tonnes of carbon released into the atmosphere each year.

Do forest fires happen in Ireland?

Wildfires in Ireland But even outside the window of illegal burning, large wildfires can occur, e.g., the large Dublin Mountains and Wicklow Mountains gorse fires in February 2019 [1], [2].

What does a peat fire smell like?

For many Scotch whisky fans, Islay single malt lovers in particular, their favorite drink is defined by the distinct aroma of peat smoke, a bewitching, earthy perfume of ancient moss.

Can you put out peat fire?

New Imperial research shows a fire suppressant, when combined with water, cuts the amount of time and water needed to extinguish peat fires by 40%. The researchers say this is a big step in tackling smouldering peat fires, which are the largest fires on Earth.

How do you put out a peat fire?

During laboratory experiments at Imperial’s HazeLab, they found that adding the suppressant to water helped them put out peat fires nearly twice as fast as using water alone, while using only a third to a half of the usual amount of water.

Are fires illegal in Ireland?

In the past decade there have been 11 prosecutions taken under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act which prohibits illegal fires in the closed season. Nine of them resulted in prosecutions and the average fine has been about €200, according to information obtained by Birdwatch Ireland under the Freedom of Information Act .

Are you allowed to light fires in Ireland?

If you are out and about enjoying our countryside and forests this summer, please help to reduce the risks of fire by keeping the following in mind: Do not light fires in or near woodland. You will be responsible if fire spreads from a campfire or barbeque. Use only designated barbeque points where available.

Do people in Ireland still burn peat?

“Bog” was, to a teenage Claffey, synonymous with “boredom.” Like many Irish families, they stored the peat at home for use as a winter fuel. According to the 2016 census, more than 75,000 households in the Republic of Ireland continue to burn peat this way.

How do you stop a peat fire?

Is burning peat toxic?

While emissions from burning peatlands are less well-studied than other types, recent research has shown that they contain potent carcinogens and over 90 different gases, some of which are highly toxic.

Can you light a fire in your garden Ireland?

Introduction. Burning waste in your home or garden is illegal, as it can release harmful chemicals into the air and may upset your neighbours.

Are garden fire pits legal in Ireland?

Can I burn tree cuttings in my garden?

Don’t burn garden waste if it is green and/or damp, such as recent hedge or tree trimmings. This type of waste will produce excessive smoke.

Is peat banned in Ireland?

Commercial peat harvesting in Ireland has been effectively banned since a landmark High Court ruling in 2019. Fine Gael TD and former foreign affairs minister Charlie Flanagan said the government should review the ban “against the backdrop of war in Europe & consequent fuel & energy challenge”.

Is peat legal in Ireland?

Does Ireland still have peat fired power stations?

Of the ten peat-burning power plants built, six have closed – Bellacorick, Lanesborough, Portarlington, Shannonbridge, Ferbane, Rhode and Portarlington – and three remain: Edenderry, Lough Ree and West Offaly.

Can I burn hedge cuttings Ireland?

The burning of vegetation is controlled by the Wildlife Acts. It is an offence under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act, 1976 (amended by Section 46 of the Wildlife Act, 2000) to burn, from 01 March to 31 August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated.