Homogeneous plantations create continuous wildfire fuel structures
#00243
Large areas with similar species, age, spacing, and residues can transmit fire efficiently, exposing neighboring settlements or ecosystems to concentrated risk.
Parent issue
#00229 Land-use change produces dangerously continuous wildfire fuels
Sustainable Development Goals
Location
Description
Plantations can concentrate trees with similar structure and management histories across large areas. Where flammability, crown continuity, understory or harvest residues are poorly managed, fire can spread with few interruptions.
The issue is hazardous homogeneity and continuity, not plantation forestry in every form. Local species, climate, management and surrounding settlement patterns determine risk.
Source: FAO Integrated Fire Management voluntary guidelines.
Sub-issues
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