Joëlle Zask warns about the urgency of addressing megafires and their environmental impact.

Joëlle Zask, a French philosopher and author of the impactful book *When the Forest Burns: Thinking About the New Environmental Disaster*, has raised her voice in a context where megafires have become a matter of urgent concern. These fires, which devastate vast forest areas, not only destroy ecosystems but also reveal an alarming disconnection between politics, society, and the reality of climate change. Zask criticizes the lack of interest surrounding this phenomenon, despite its clear connection to the climate crisis and the rural exodus occurring in many regions of the world. The philosopher recounts how her interest in fires was sparked after witnessing the devastation left by a fire in a forest. For her, the landscape is more than just a backdrop; it is an essential component of human identity and history. The irreversibility of destruction by fire generates a feeling of helplessness and anguish, echoing the emotions experienced by the victims of these disasters. However, Zask emphasizes that the depth of this problem has not been discussed with the seriousness it deserves, both in scientific circles and in the public sphere. In her reflections, Zask points out that wildfires are, in essence, a symptom of a malfunction in political representation. She questions why they are discussed as if they were just another news story, suggesting that perhaps there is a latent fear that prevents us from confronting the magnitude of the problem. Drawing on historical examples, such as the great fire of Lisbon in 1755, Zask highlights that current fires are not merely natural catastrophes; they are manifestations of a planetary imbalance that reflects human responsibility. The philosopher also distinguishes between fires and megafires, a term that describes recent phenomena that become uncontrollable. These megafires are intrinsically linked to global warming and are becoming increasingly intense and frequent. With conducive conditions such as a dry environment, abundant fuel, and strong winds, climate change is drastically altering fire patterns, prolonging the seasons of these disasters. Zask points out that beyond global warming, the destruction of forests has been exacerbated by rural exodus and the disappearance of traditional forestry techniques. The lack of knowledge and proper management of these ecosystems leads to the accumulation of flammable materials, increasing the vulnerability of forests to fires. As temperatures rise, new pests also emerge, contributing to the destruction of trees. The paradox of megafires is that, despite their increasing frequency and the warnings from experts, they are still not fully recognized as an integral part of the climate crisis. Zask explains that their sudden and devastating nature challenges the traditional understanding of climate change, where phenomena are perceived as slow processes. This explosive character of megafires raises questions about how the relationship between humans and nature should be framed. In a society that has tamed fire and associates it with home and life, it is difficult to accept that this element can become a destroyer. Zask explains that this duality in the perception of fire complicates our relationship with the environment and how we understand natural disasters. Fire, which has been fundamental to our evolution, can also threaten our existence if not managed properly. When discussing how we should interact with nature, Zask argues that it is urgent to develop a more responsible and conscious relationship with forests. This includes recognizing the importance of sustainable practices and valuing traditional knowledge that can offer effective solutions to current challenges. The author suggests that the future of our interactions with the environment cannot be based solely on an extractive approach but must include an appreciation of nature that combines both utility and respect. Finally, Zask appeals for the need for a community policy that recognizes forests as a common good, not just in a national context but also at a European level. The idea is that states must protect this collective heritage and develop strategies that go beyond individual measures. While megafires are a global phenomenon, solutions must be local and based on a deep understanding of the specific ecological dynamics of each region. Joëlle Zask’s call is clear: it is time for politics and society to confront the reality of megafires with the seriousness they deserve, understanding that their management requires a paradigm shift in our relationship with nature. Responsibility does not rest solely with institutions but must be a collective endeavor involving civil society as a whole.