The Environmental Protection Authority has recommended an independent scientific enquiry into prescribed burning practices in WA, particularly in the context of climate change.

EPA chair Professor Matthew Tonts said an independent review under the 1986 EPA Act would call on the expertise of independent scientists to consider prescribed burning approaches and implementation.

This follows Fire and Air Forum: Biodiversity, Environmental Sustainability and Human Health at WA University in May.

At the forum, community concern regarding the impacts of broadscale prescribed burning on the South West biodiversity hotspot was high.

This included pervasive smoke pollution heightening concern about the frequency, scale and intensity of planned burns, risks to public health and safety, risks to biodiversity, and the escalating risks of climate change.

Expert speakers detailed how best to protect the natural landscape and the people for a sustainable and healthy future.

Convenor Carole Peters, hosts – the WA Forest Alliance and the Royal Society of WA – sponsors and supporters worked voluntarily for this not-for-profit event. The all-day forum attracted outstanding reviews and an almost capacity audience at the University Club of WA.

All participants were invited to write to WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby to request an independent expert inquiry into prescribed burning policies and practices, particularly in the South West.

To see the video coverage of the Fire and Air Forum: Biodiversity, Environmental Sustainability and Human Health, go to https://vimeo.com/channels/fireandairforum

This article appeared in the Denmark Bulletin, 14 September 2023.

Related story: Fire management in WA: The Bushfire Front responds to EPA 1745