According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, nearly 12,000 fires occurred in ecosystems in the early months of 2025. The main reasons for these fires are careless handling of fire, including discarded cigarettes and matches, as well as intentional burning of dry vegetation. Consequently, around 10,000 hectares of Ukrainian land have been burned, causing significant damage to nature.

Despite ongoing warnings, many individuals continue to burn grass, trash, and dry plants in their gardens. This issue is particularly pronounced in spring and autumn when Ukrainians commonly burn dry leaves, mistakenly believing it enhances crop yields. In reality, this is a myth, and the damage caused by such burning is immense.

What are the dangers of burning dry vegetation?

1. Destruction of soil fertility
   Fire kills the microflora that plays a vital role in important biological processes. The fertile layer of soil recovers only after 5–6 years of such burning.

2. Harmful effects on health
   During the combustion of dry vegetation, toxic substances are released into the air, which are dangerous for human respiratory organs. Smoke from burnt leaves contains carcinogens that can lead to serious diseases.

3. No benefit to the land
   Burning grass does not warm the soil, enrich it with nutrients, or promote the growth of new grass.

4. Risk of large-scale fires
   A small fire can quickly escalate into an uncontrollable blaze, destroying homes, forests, and agricultural lands, causing devastation, and adding pressure on emergency responders.

Instead of burning dry leaves and grass, choose safe disposal methods:

• transporting organic waste to designated landfills organized by local authorities;
• composting – a great way to produce natural organic fertilizer for your garden.

The State Emergency Service of Ukraine urges all citizens to act responsibly towards the environment and avoid creating threats to themselves and others. Remember: burning dry vegetation brings no benefits, only harm to nature, health, and property!