The NAU Review — How wildfires affect the climate + have fun while helping the environment

Feb. 25, 2025

Right now, the most effective carbon sink in the world is dirt—specifically the permafrost in boreal and tundra ecosystems in the northern parts of the world, which store twice as much carbon as is currently in the atmosphere. As the climate warms and increasingly severe wildfires disrupt those soils, this carbon can be released into the atmosphere. Biologist Xanthe Walker received a $1.8 million grant from the National Science Foundation to determine just how serious this loss could be in the coming years.

If you like to spend time outdoors and enjoy helping the environment, this opportunity is for you! The Grand Canyon Trust is looking for volunteers to help restore trails and preserve natural areas while having fun. Single- or multi-day camping trips are available to explore the Grand Canyon and the Colorado Plateau for free with experts leading the way.