The Dangers of Burning Dry Vegetation: Consequences and Alternatives
According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, nearly 12,000 fires in ecosystems were recorded in the early months of 2025. The main causes of these fires include careless handling of fire, such as discarded cigarette butts, matches, and intentional burning of dry grass. As a result, approximately 10,000 hectares of Ukrainian land were scorched, causing significant harm to nature and ecosystems.
Despite continuous warnings, many people continue to burn grass, garbage, and dry plants in their gardens, yards, and fields. This issue becomes particularly acute in spring and autumn when Ukrainians widely burn dry leaves, grass, and branches, mistakenly believing it promotes crop yield. In reality, this is a myth, and the damage caused by such burning is enormous.
What are the dangers of burning dry vegetation?
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Destruction of soil fertility
The fire kills the microorganisms essential for important biological processes. The fertile layer of soil takes 5 to 6 years to recover after such burning. -
Harmful effects on health
During the burning of dry vegetation, toxic substances harmful to human respiratory organs are released into the air. Smoke from burnt leaves contains carcinogens that can cause serious illnesses. -
No benefit to the land
Burning grass does not warm the soil, enrich it with beneficial substances, or promote the growth of new grass. -
Risk of large-scale fires
A small fire can quickly escalate into an uncontrollable blaze that destroys homes, forests, and agricultural land, causing devastation and additional burdens on rescuers.
Instead of burning dry leaves and grass, choose safe disposal methods:
- removal of plant waste to designated landfills organized by local services;
- composting — a great way to obtain natural organic fertilizer for gardens and farms.
The State Emergency Service of Ukraine urges all citizens to treat the environment responsibly and not create threats to themselves and others. Remember: burning dry vegetation brings no benefits, only harm to nature, health, and property!