Analysis of wildfire in California suggests a net reduction in exposure to blaze-related air pollution.
17 June 2026
Analysis of wildfire in California suggests a net reduction in exposure to blaze-related air pollution.
Satellite imagery of burnt areas shows that controlled burns, which protect ecosystem health, might also protect human health. Credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty
The practice of deliberately setting forests on fire to clear out flammable debris reduces air pollution from later uncontrolled fires — an effect that has long-term health benefits1.
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