Since 2017, the HSPN has been leading an initiative on Forest Fire Prevention, focusing on proactive measures to address the destructive impact of wildfires. The initiative includes a series of programs and activities targeting authorities, experts, citizens, and students, aiming to foster a culture of prevention rather than relying solely on suppression and restoration.
With climate change expecting to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, together with changes in forest management and land use in Greece, wildfires are anticipated to become more challenging, with severe consequences.
Actions
The project “Innovative Action for Fire Prevention in Kythera” was funded by the Green Fund and implemented by the HSPN in collaboration with the Mediterranean Forest Ecosystems Institute. It began in April 2019 and concluded in October 2021.
Recognized as one of the 11 best practices for wildfire prevention in the Mediterranean, the project was highlighted in a publication by the European Forest Institute (EFI) on March 1, 2024. You can learn more here.
The primary objective was to inform and mobilize Kythera’s residents on wildfire prevention, aiming to reduce damages to homes and settlements. This was achieved through comprehensive fire prevention planning tailored to local needs, and pilot interventions in three selected areas of the island.
The HSPN carried out the initiative “Prevention of Forest Fires is the Only Way” in Ilia from February to July 2022, with the support of Eurobank. This program aimed to raise awareness and activate students and citizens on wildfire prevention, especially in light of the devastating fires of August 2021 in the Ancient Olympia region.
The key components of the initiative were: an online training seminar for educators, conducted in collaboration with educational authorities, an open workshop for stakeholders and citizens, and cleanup activities to protect local ecosystems.
During the 2021-2022 school year, the HSPN expanded its wildfire prevention activities to the regions of Phocis and Boeotia. The initiative focused on raising awareness and mobilizing both the school community and the local population on wildfire prevention and management. It was implemented as part of the International Programme for Environmental Education “Learning About Forests”, with the support of MYTILINEOS.
The key components of the initiative were: Online seminars and a workshop aimed at teachers and volunteers to promote active participation in wildfire prevention and management, tree planting and cleaning activities, organized in areas selected in consultation with responsible authorities to rehabilitate and protect ecosystems and help prevent forest fires.
How can I protect myself from forest fires? What precautions should I take to avoid causing a fire through negligence? Is my home fire-resistant?
Find answers to these crucial questions in the special informational leaflet that outlines steps you can take to make a difference, safeguard your safety, and protect nature. You can also explore the topic further at the PROTECTION OF NATURE LAB by visiting this link .
The leaflet’s content was prepared by Dr. M. Athanasiou, a wildfire expert, who generously volunteered his expertise for this initiative.
