Sugarcane field with controlled burn at sunset in countryside

Controlled burn of sugarcane fields in São Paulo countryside at sunset: an agricultural technique for planting and harvest preparation.

About this subject

Controlled burning of sugarcane is a traditional agricultural practice in Brazil, especially in the state of São Paulo, the country's largest producer. Fire is intentionally applied to remove straw, weeds, and pests, making manual or mechanized cutting easier. Despite controversy due to greenhouse gas emissions and particulate matter, the technique is still used in areas where mechanized harvesting is not feasible due to topography or property size. In the São Paulo countryside, such as the regions of Ribeirão Preto and Piracicaba, burning typically occurs in the late afternoon when relative humidity is lower and winds are more predictable, reducing the risk of uncontrolled spread. The practice is regulated by state laws that require prior authorization and set permitted times. The sunset, with its orange light, contrasts with the flames and smoke, creating a striking landscape that symbolizes the duality between agricultural production and environmental impacts. In recent years, the sugarcane-energy sector has invested in technologies to reduce burning, such as mechanized harvesting of raw cane, which preserves straw on the soil for protection and organic fertilization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is controlled burning done in sugarcane fields?

Controlled burning removes straw, weeds, and pests, making manual or mechanized cutting easier and increasing productivity.

Is controlled burning allowed by law?

Yes, but it is regulated by state laws requiring prior authorization and specific times, usually in the late afternoon.

What are the environmental impacts of sugarcane burning?

It emits greenhouse gases and fine particles, contributing to air pollution and climate change. Alternatives like mechanized harvesting are being adopted.