Commission launches new strategy to tackle rising wildfire threat

The European Commission has introduced a new integrated wildfire strategy to address the growing scale and intensity of fires across Europe, driven largely by climate change. The approach covers the full disaster cycle—prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery—with a strong emphasis on prevention through ecosystem restoration and building fire-resilient landscapes. It includes updated risk assessment guidance, expanded early warning systems using satellite data and AI, and increased operational capacity such as additional firefighting aircraft and a new regional training hub. The strategy also promotes public awareness, citizen engagement, and cross-border cooperation, while supporting firefighters and improving understanding of long-term health risks. Overall, it aims to strengthen coordination among Member States and embed a whole-of-society approach to reduce wildfire risks and enhance resilience.