Green Junction: The Ripple Effect of Wildfire Pollution
Pollutants are defined as substances that have an adverse effect on life systems. The recent California wildfires created huge amounts of pollutants, among the devastation and destruction. The typical pollutants from fires, particulate matter (small particles) and pollutant gases, were augmented by toxic substances from the burning of man-made materials. UCSD scientist Julie Dinasquet explained “These fires not only consumed vegetation but also massive amounts of urban infrastructure. This introduces a novel ‘urban ash’ component to the wildfire source, filled with exceptionally toxic materials.” She further stated “these fires pose a potential significant threat to both humans and ecosystems through the introduction of a large amount of toxic material in the system.”
Source: Kruti Davda, Oizom, 2021.
Another concern from massive wildfires is the reach of these more complex pollutants. According to researchers from Scripps Oceanography, ash and debris from the fires were identified as far away as 100 miles offshore, impacting fisheries and the broader food web. Additionally, wildfires can affect the quality of surface waters. Major modifications to the land, such as loss of trees and plants that absorb rain and moisture, change the flow of water. The US EPA website explains that wildfires “severely affect water quality by causing soil erosion, increased flooding, and the flow of debris and potential contaminants.”
Municipal water in areas affected by wildfires may contain a variety of contaminants and can prompt advisories. Heated or burned pipes potentially leach chemicals, smoke can enter water pipelines, and the fallout of air pollutants can enter the water supply. Overall, the destruction from wildfire extends far beyond the loss of infrastructure, natural vegetation and other property damage. Last year, the World Meteorological Association released the statement “A vicious cycle of climate change, wildfires and air pollution is having a spiraling negative impact on human health, ecosystems and agriculture.”
