Ecuador launches campaign "Together We Prevent Forest Fires 2024"

In an effort to curb the devastating wave of wildfires that has affected various provinces of Ecuador, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition (MAATE) has launched the annual prevention campaign "Together We Prevent Wildfires 2024." This announcement, made at a press conference at the Integrated Security Service ECU 911, represents a renewed commitment from the government to protect the country's ecosystems and safeguard the lives of communities that depend on these natural resources. The provinces targeted by this campaign are those that have historically suffered the impacts of fire. Loja, Pichincha, Imbabura, Azuay, Chimborazo, Carchi, Guayas, El Oro, Cotopaxi, and Manabí are the most vulnerable regions, where the combination of climatic factors and human activities often results in devastating fires, especially between the months of July and December. This campaign aims not only to mitigate damage but also to promote a culture of prevention and environmental responsibility among the population. Daniel Segura, manager of the "Amazon Without Fire" program, emphasized the importance of implementing effective strategies for comprehensive fire management, an initiative that has been strengthened since 2017. "Education is key," Segura stated, highlighting that raising awareness among citizens is the first step in preventing fires. The five key areas of action for the campaign include environmental education, training for community firefighters, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, monitoring and early detection of fires, as well as rehabilitating affected areas. One of the most significant achievements of the "Amazon Without Fire" program has been the reduction in the number of reported fires in recent years, which would indicate the effectiveness of the implemented measures. However, challenges persist. Adverse climatic conditions, combined with the expansion of agricultural frontiers and a lack of awareness in certain communities, continue to pose obstacles in the fight against wildfires. MAATE has emphasized the importance of inter-institutional collaboration to address this issue. Institutions such as the Integrated Security Service ECU911, the Risk Management Secretariat (SGR), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG), and the Ministry of Education (MINEDUC) have joined efforts in a common cause. This collaboration is essential to create campaigns that not only inform but also engage communities in protecting their environment. The involvement of local governments and international cooperation organizations is another fundamental pillar of this initiative. Through prevention and awareness activities, the aim is to create a social fabric that supports the conservation of forests and biodiversity. Communities are seen as allies in this process, and their active participation can be decisive for the success of prevention strategies. The Ecuadorian government has recognized that the fight against wildfires is not only an environmental issue but also a social and economic one. The losses caused by these disasters not only affect flora and fauna but also impact productive activities and the quality of life for many people. Therefore, this campaign seeks not only to prevent fires but also to raise awareness about the benefits of preserving natural resources. Authorities are calling on citizens to join this cause and adopt responsible practices in their daily lives. From the proper management of campfires to the correct disposal of waste, every small gesture counts in the fight against wildfires. The active participation of civil society is crucial, and it is hoped that the campaign will generate a multiplier effect that motivates others to get involved. As the "Together We Prevent Wildfires 2024" campaign progresses, MAATE is committed to continuing to evaluate the impact of its actions and adjusting its strategies based on the results obtained. Protecting the environment is a collective task that requires collaboration from everyone. With the implementation of these action axes, Ecuador is taking a firm step towards a safer and more sustainable future, where fire does not become an enemy but rather a tool that is managed with responsibility and respect.