The Burning Decade
In the early 21st century, Earth witnessed a surge in catastrophic wildfires—from California to Australia, the Amazon to Siberia. Fueled by climate change, drought, and human activity, these blazes reshaped landscapes and lives.
By the Numbers
+300%
Global wildfire frequency since 2000
15M+
Hectares burned annually (avg)
70B+
Tons of CO₂ released yearly
Timeline of Major Fires
2003 – Europe
Record-breaking heatwave triggered fires across Portugal, Spain, and France.
Record-breaking heatwave triggered fires across Portugal, Spain, and France.
2019–2020 – Australia
“Black Summer” burned over 24 million hectares and killed or displaced 3 billion animals.
“Black Summer” burned over 24 million hectares and killed or displaced 3 billion animals.
2020 – Western USA
California, Oregon, and Washington faced historic fire seasons with orange skies and hazardous air.
California, Oregon, and Washington faced historic fire seasons with orange skies and hazardous air.
2023 – Canada
Worst wildfire season in Canadian history, with smoke affecting cities as far as New York.
Worst wildfire season in Canadian history, with smoke affecting cities as far as New York.
What Can We Do?
While the past decade was defined by fire, the future doesn’t have to be. Supporting reforestation, reducing carbon emissions, improving land management, and investing in early warning systems are critical steps toward resilience.
The world was on fire—but awareness is the first spark of change.