A global outlook on increasing wildfire risk: Current policy situation and future pathways

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Pooja Pandey - , European University Cyprus (Author)
  • Gabriela Huidobro - , Chair of Tropical and International Forestry (Author)
  • Luis Filipe Lopes - , University of Lisbon (Author)
  • Anne Ganteaume - , INRAE - National Institute of Agricultural Research (Author)
  • Davide Ascoli - , University of Turin (Author)
  • Conceição Colaco - , University of Lisbon (Author)
  • Gavriil Xanthopoulos - , Hellenic Agricultural Organization “DIMITRA” (Author)
  • Theodore M. Giannaros - , National Observatory of Athens (Author)
  • Rob Gazzard - , Forestry Commission and Defra (Author)
  • Georgios Boustras - , European University Cyprus (Author)
  • Toddi Steelman - , Duke University (Author)
  • Valerie Charlton - , LandWorks NPC (Author)
  • Euan Ferguson - , Euan Ferguson Pty Ltd (Author)
  • Judith Kirschner - , European University Cyprus (Author)
  • Kerryn Little - , University of Birmingham (Author)
  • Cathelijne Stoof - , Wageningen University & Research (WUR) (Author)
  • William Nikolakis - , University of British Columbia (Author)
  • Carmen Rodriguez Fernández-Blanco - , European Forest Institute (Author)
  • Claudio Ribotta - , INRAE - National Institute of Agricultural Research (Author)
  • Hugo Lambrechts - , Wageningen University & Research (WUR) (Author)
  • Mariña Fernandez - , Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (Author)
  • Simona Dossi - , Imperial College London (Author)

Abstract

Aim: to understand how wildfire risk policies are designed to mitigate1 the impacts of wildfires. Wildfires are a growing threat in many parts of the world, posing significant risks to human life, and the environment. In recent years, wildfires have increased, driven largely by climate change, human activity, and changes in land-use patterns. Wildfire risk adaptation and mitigation measures vary widely between countries and regions around the world. Therefore, it is essential to develop a comprehensive policy approach to mitigate wildfire risks and promote sustainable forest and land management practices. This article aims to provide insight into wildfire policies, implementation actions, and their effectiveness by describing wildfire policies centered mainly on exclusion and wildfire risk mitigation. Methodology: the article examines existing wildfire-related policies and relevant literature based on 10 systematic factors. Further exploring how these policies can be enhanced to meet the challenges of the coming years for six European countries (Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, UK) as well as Australia, Canada, USA, and South Africa. Results: The status quo, perceived strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations from key-informants were presented to enhance wildfire policies in each country. Conclusions: The article analyses current wildfire policies in fire-prone countries, highlighting regional variations and the need for an integrated management strategy. It offers country-specific recommendations based on the participants viewpoints, for coordinated efforts to mitigate wildfire risks and promote sustainable forest management.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Article number100431
Journal Trees, forests and people
Volume14
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2023
Peer-reviewedYes

Keywords

Keywords

  • Mitigation, Policy, Strengths, Weakness, Wildfire risk