Emma Bryce: How are these fires burning underground?

How are these fires burning underground?

In 1997, a fire began in Indonesia that would rage for almost a year. Despite being one of the largest fires in recorded history, for months at a time it burned without a flame. This might sound like a uniquely freaky fire, but it’s actually one of many. So, is it possible to snuff out these bizarre blazes? And how do they form in the first place? Emma Bryce explores the phenomenon of peat fires. [Directed by Ivana Volda, narrated by Christina Greer, music by Stephen LaRosa].

Beneath seemingly calm landscapes, peat fires smolder for months or even years, producing up to 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions—six times more than all international flights. These 'zombie fires' burn underground, fueled by dried-out, carbon-rich peatlands that once stored vast amounts of carbon. As climate change brings more droughts and humans drain wetlands for agriculture, these hidden fires are becoming more common and much harder to fight. Their persistence and pollution make them a crucial battleground in keeping carbon out of the atmosphere.