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What is causing the wildfire in Iran's Hyrcanian forests?
The wildfire is believed to be caused by a combination of severe drought, illegal land clearing, and possibly illegal hunting. Iran’s drought has reduced rainfall by 85%, making the forests more vulnerable to fires. Some reports suggest illegal activities like land clearing and hunting may have also contributed to the ignition and spread of the fire.
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How are Iran and neighboring countries responding to the forest fire?
Iran has requested firefighting assistance from Turkey and possibly Russia. Efforts include deploying helicopters, firefighting aircraft, and thousands of firefighters on the ground. International aid is crucial as the fire threatens a UNESCO World Heritage site, and neighboring countries are providing support to contain the blaze.
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Why are the Hyrcanian forests so important?
The Hyrcanian forests are a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for their ancient age—between 25 and 50 million years—and rich biodiversity, including over 3,200 plant species. They are a critical ecological zone that supports many endangered species and plays a vital role in regional climate regulation.
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Are similar environmental threats happening elsewhere?
Yes, many forests worldwide face threats from wildfires, illegal land clearing, and climate change. Recent years have seen an increase in large-scale wildfires in places like California, Australia, and the Amazon, driven by drought, rising temperatures, and human activity. These threats highlight the global importance of forest conservation and climate action.
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What can be done to prevent future wildfires in these forests?
Preventing future wildfires involves better land management, stricter enforcement against illegal activities, and addressing climate change. International cooperation and investment in firefighting infrastructure are also essential to protect these vital ecosystems from similar threats in the future.