Forest fires: Sparking firesmart policies in the EU

This document critically reviews the results of EU research on forest fires with a view to exploring policy adaptation to face the new challenges imposed by megafires. The review demonstrates that EU-funded research has stimulated advances in fire knowledge, operational management and decision-support mechanisms while enhancing cooperation between the key actors. The review highlights specific areas for improvement.

The analysis of the knowledge, methodologies and technologies produced in the last two decades opens up new perspectives for forest fire risk management in the face of climate and environmental changes, social and cultural trends and growth dynamics. Based on the findings of the review and the conclusions of a multistakeholder workshop, key recommendations have emerged and are proposed for a more extensive dialogue between the key actors to improve forest fire risk management in Europe.