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How this invasive tree made wildfires worse

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May 15, 2026

Eucalyptus has been planted across the world for quick profits. But the highly flammable and invasive tree is now reshaping fire behavior.

In Galicia, Spain, vast eucalyptus plantations - once seen as a fast, profitable resource for paper and timber - are now driving rising wildfire risk. The highly flammable trees burn hotter and spread fires faster, while also depleting water and outcompeting native species. Poor management and rapid expansion have worsened the problem, prompting local communities to remove eucalyptus and restore safer, more diverse forests.

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Planet A

We're destroying our environment at an alarming rate. But it doesn't need to be this way. Planet A explores the shift towards an eco-friendly world and challenges the way we are dealing with climate change.

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