Responses to the Defra burning ban from BASC & RSPB -
Defra burning ban will add fuel to wildfires, says BASC
The extension of a ban on controlled burning on deep peat in England’s uplands has been labelled contradictory and ill-conceived by BASC.
Controlled burning has been an essential tool in the uplands for hundreds of years for grazing, livestock, improving habitat for diverse wildlife, managing grouse moors and wildfire mitigation.
The new restrictions were announced today, 9 September, by Defra, and come into force at the end of this month. BASC warns that they will increase wildfire risk in a year that has seen record-breaking temperatures and an unprecedented number of wildfires ravage parts of the country.
Alex Farrell, BASC head of uplands, said: “Recent reports have pointed to 2025 being the worst ever year for wildfires in the UK – with the total set to eclipse 1,000. The irony is, as regulation tightens, the risk of large-scale wildfires increases. In the name of protecting peatlands, they may well be being set up to burn. We believe that this announcement today is contradictory and ill-conceived.”
RSPB released a statement on Defra extending the ban on burning vegetation on deep peat
Beccy Speight, RSPB chief executive, said: “Extending the ban on burning over peat in the English uplands is a hugely positive step forwards towards protecting these precious habitats and reducing carbon emissions.
“Peatlands are one of nature’s greatest superheroes, for nature and for climate. They are home to some of the UK’s rarest birds and incredible wildlife. When healthy, peatlands act as a natural filter helping to improve water quality, can store water during times of drought, slow flow during times of flood and are resilient to fire. And in their wet, natural state they keep their vast stores of carbon locked away and so have a crucial role to play in our efforts to tackle climate change.
“Burning them is bad for nature, for the climate, for water quality and for managing flood risk. With the UK Government targeting the restoration of 280,000 hectares of peatland by 2050, we hope today’s announcement signals a move towards an end to burning in the English uplands, to protect peatland habitats and reduce emissions.
“We would like to thank all our supporters who took the time to take part in the Defra led consultation and to thank Defra ministers for making the decision announced today.”