As reported by the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS), wildfires in South America have driven carbon emissions to record-breaking levels in 2024.
In Brazil, carbon emissions totaled 183 megatonnes as of September 19, with September alone contributing 65 megatonnes.
The states of Amazonas and Mato Grosso do Sul have been hit particularly hard, each experiencing the highest emissions recorded in 22 years.
This situation has worsened air quality across the region.
Bolivia has also been severely impacted, with wildfire emissions reaching 76 megatonnes by mid-September.
This surpasses the previous record set in 2010 of 73 megatonnes.
Wildfires in Santa Cruz are a major contributor to Bolivia’s emissions.
The wildfires are particularly intense this year due to the region’s extreme heat and prolonged drought.
South America experienced unusually high temperatures and low soil moisture during the July–September fire season.
CAMS data indicate that these factors have intensified the wildfires, leading to the highest emissions levels in years.
CAMS Senior Scientist Mark Parrington commented on the impact of these fires, saying: “In 2024, the wildfire activity in South America has been markedly above average, especially in the Amazon region and in the Pantanal wetlands.
“The smoke transport has had an impact far beyond the vicinity of where the fires have been burning.”
The extensive fires have led to widespread air quality degradation across South America.
According to CAMS, smoke from the wildfires has spread across much of the continent, affecting areas from Ecuador to São Paulo.
The service’s Aerosol Alerts forecast for September 20 showed particularly high levels of particulate matter PM2.5 in the Amazon region, which poses health risks to those living in affected areas.
Parrington further noted: “The scale of the smoke transport and air quality impacts are an indicator of the scale and intensity of the fires.
“It is imperative to keep monitoring these wildfires and their emissions to track their impact on air quality and the atmosphere.”
While wildfires are common during the July–September period, this year’s blazes are considered more severe due to climatic conditions.
The long-term drought, combined with extreme temperatures, is believed to have worsened the fires and extended their duration.
Scientists remain concerned about the long-term impact of these fires on both the environment and public health.
CAMS continues to monitor the emissions and their impact on the atmosphere.
The ongoing collection of data will provide a clearer picture of how these fires are influencing air quality and contributing to global carbon emissions.
In 2024, wildfires in South America have driven record-breaking carbon emissions, particularly in Brazil and Bolivia.
Brazil’s emissions reached 183 megatonnes by mid-September, with the states of Amazonas and Mato Grosso do Sul severely affected.
Bolivia’s emissions hit 76 megatonnes, surpassing the previous record set in 2010.
Extreme heat, drought, and other climatological factors have exacerbated the situation.
Widespread air quality degradation has occurred, with smoke spreading across the continent.
The Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service continues to track the fires and their environmental impact.
