Greece: Forest fires 1983-2008

This study investigates fires in Greece from 1983-2008 and calls on Greek authorities to develop an effective system to protect the country's forests. The aim of the study is to draw useful conclusions for research, prevention and reduction. It reports that the total area destroyed amounted to some 1.3 million hectares (3.2 million acres). Although the cause of most of the fires was not clear, approximately 11 percent were the result of arson and about nine percent were triggered by fires farmers lit to clear their properties.