CRISIS RESPONSE.pdf

Forest fires are a worldwide natural phenomenon, occurring in most ecosystems, with the Mediterranean region being particularly prone due to its climate. The problem has worsened over the years, with the number of large and damaging fires increasing. Despite efforts to improve fire suppression capacity, the situation has not improved, and a good understanding of the causes of the problem is needed to take measures in the correct direction.

The causes of the problem have been identified as being rooted in socioeconomic changes, including depopulation of rural areas, relinquishing traditional uses, and the development of wildland-urban interface areas. Experts have warned about the problem and predicted its evolution, but their warnings have often been ignored by politicians.

In Greece, a policy change in 1998 transferred responsibility for firefighting from the Forest Service to the Greek Fire Corps, leading to a decrease in funding for fire prevention and an increase in firefighting budget. This change was predicted to lead to a disaster, which occurred in 2007, with a large area burned, homes destroyed, and lives lost.

At the European level, there have been efforts to address the problem, including research projects and operational programs, but these have not been enough to provide solutions. The European Commission has described a proactive approach to disaster prevention, but policies in southern European countries have not addressed the underlying issues.

The problem is complex and multifaceted, and a holistic approach to wise forest landscape management is needed, including a balanced, science-based, and objectively planned fire protection strategy. The huge disasters in Greece and Australia should serve as a wake-up call for governments to listen to scientists and take appropriate measures to address the problem.