On the Short-Term Effects of Forest Fires on the Atmosphere/Climate

Against the backdrop of global warming, the short-term climate and atmospheric impacts of forest fires are becoming increasingly pronounced. This study employs systematic literature review and case analysis to examine the divergent short-term environmental effects of tropical peat fires versus temperate/northern forest fires. Findings reveal that tropical peat fires are characterized by high-intensity carbon emissions and transregional haze transport, significantly impacting air quality and public health. In contrast, temperate and northern forest fires predominantly release short-lived climate pollutants like black carbon, generating complex regional climate feedbacks and potentially accelerating ice and snow melt. Significant differences exist between the two fire types in emission composition, climate effect intensity, and spatial scope, with their impacts exhibiting high regional heterogeneity and seasonal characteristics. The study emphasizes the need to establish more precise fire emission monitoring and early warning systems, and to incorporate the short-term climate effects of fires into regional carbon accounting and climate policy evaluation frameworks. This will enhance the capacity to respond to extreme fire events and improve the effectiveness of climate governance.