Fact Check: Wildfires can be started by human activity.

Fact Check: "Wildfires can be started by human activity"

What We Know

Wildfires are a significant environmental concern, and a substantial body of evidence indicates that human activity is a primary cause. According to the National Park Service, nearly 85 percent of wildland fires in the United States are attributed to human actions. These include unattended campfires, burning debris, equipment malfunctions, and intentional arson. Other sources corroborate this, stating that human ignition accounts for 84% of all wildfires, with an even higher percentage (97%) for those that threaten homes.

Research from the Wildfire Community Action Team indicates that human-related activities, such as improperly discarded cigarettes and negligence, are responsible for nearly 90% of wildfires in the United States. This aligns with findings from various studies that emphasize the role of human behavior in initiating wildfires.

Analysis

The claim that wildfires can be started by human activity is strongly supported by multiple credible sources. The National Park Service's data is particularly reliable, as it is based on extensive research conducted over several years, specifically from 2000 to 2017. This data is corroborated by NASA's findings, which highlight that human-caused climate change is exacerbating fire weather conditions, leading to more frequent and intense wildfires (NASA).

Moreover, a study published in Scientific American discusses how wildfires ignited by humans tend to be more destructive than those caused by natural events, further emphasizing the impact of human activity on wildfire severity (Scientific American).

While some sources may vary slightly in the exact percentage of human-caused wildfires, the consensus remains clear that human actions are a significant factor in wildfire ignition. The reliability of these sources is high, given their scientific backing and the reputation of the organizations involved, such as NASA and the National Park Service.

Conclusion

The claim that "wildfires can be started by human activity" is True. The overwhelming evidence from multiple reputable sources indicates that human actions are responsible for a significant majority of wildfires. This includes negligence, intentional acts, and other human-related activities that contribute to the ignition and spread of wildfires.