KUCHING: The Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department has recorded a total of 34 cases of open burning this year.
An infographic from the department reveals the figure recorded from Jan 20 to Feb 26 across seven zones.
According to the infographic, the highest figure recorded involved bush, weed and grass fires with 22 cases.
There were seven cases of garbage fires, and two cases each of forest fires, peat fires and wood fires.
Zone 6 Miri recorded double-digit figure of open burnings this year with 12 cases.
Meanwhile, Zone 1 Kuching comes in second with six cases, Zone 4 Sibu and Zone 7 Limbang with five cases each, Zone 2 Kota Samarahan and Zone 5 Bintulu with three cases each, and Zone 3 Sri Aman recorded one case.
Open burning is a common practice in rural areas, often associated with agricultural purposes such as clearing land for planting. However, it can have severe consequences for air quality, wildlife and human health.
Smoke produced by open burning contains harmful pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds, which can exacerbate respiratory conditions and contribute to global warming.
In addition to health hazards, open burning can also lead to long-term environmental damage.
Forest fires, in particular, can destroy valuable ecosystems, endanger wildlife and accelerate deforestation. Peat fires, which occur in areas with high concentrations of organic matter, can release large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change.
To address the issue of open burning, the department has implemented various measures, including public awareness campaigns and enforcement of existing laws.
