Wildfires in Spain: the impact of climate change and rural abandonment

The abandonment of rural areas, the climate crisis, and inadequate forest management are three factors that are directly related to the increasing virulence of wildfires in Spain. This phenomenon has gained particular relevance in the context of the World Fire Prevention Day, celebrated on August 18, which highlights the urgent need to address these variables to mitigate the impact of fires, which are becoming increasingly devastating and difficult to control. The situation is alarming, as despite Spain being one of the European countries with a considerable forest area, a large part of these forests is not being properly utilized. According to Miguel Ángel Soto, head of campaigns at Greenpeace, this abandonment makes the forests extremely vulnerable to fire, causing them to burn with excessive intensity once fires are ignited. Forest management has become a crucial issue, not only for the preservation of our ecosystems but also for the safety of the communities living nearby. In terms of figures, the Ministry for Ecological Transition (MITECO) has reported that between January 1 and August 11, 2024, 37,991 hectares have burned, which represents approximately half of the area affected during the same period the previous year. This decrease is an encouraging sign that reflects the efforts made in fire prevention. However, it is essential to keep in mind that large-scale fires, those exceeding 500 hectares, remain a critical problem. Climate change plays a determining role in the evolution of wildfires, as evidenced by changes in temperature and precipitation patterns. This phenomenon has prolonged drought seasons and increased the frequency and severity of fires. In fact, in the last two decades, the magnitude of extreme fires has doubled, with the six most devastating years recorded since 2017. The scientific community has coined terms such as "megafires" to describe sixth-generation fires that alter weather conditions and are virtually impossible to extinguish. In light of this issue, prevention strategies must focus on addressing the causes that lead to fires. This includes a firm commitment to combating climate change, promoting proper landscape management, and encouraging rural area occupation. The lack of attention to these areas has resulted in greater vulnerability and often a heightened risk of catastrophic fires. A crucial element in fire management is proper urban planning. Creating a barrier between the forest and urban areas can be key to preventing fire from reaching homes and other vital spaces. Implementing policies that promote biomass reduction in the vicinity of inhabited areas can have a positive effect on risk mitigation. Ecological restoration presents a long-term solution to reduce the severity and spread of fires. Projects like the WWF initiative in areas affected by the Cortes de Pallás fire, which aims to create an agroforestry mosaic, are examples of how to work towards restoring the landscape and making it more fire-resistant. These initiatives not only benefit the environment but also help revitalize life in rural communities. However, it cannot be ignored that up to 95% of fires are caused by human action, highlighting the need for continuous education and awareness about the importance of prevention. Current statistics show a decrease in the number of fires compared to previous years, but the trend of increasing large wildfires remains concerning. As we face the challenge of climate change and rural abandonment, it is crucial to adopt inclusive policies that involve all sectors of society. Dignifying life in rural areas and promoting sustainable development are necessary steps to address this crisis. Education and awareness about fire management and the importance of ecosystems are essential for building a safer and more sustainable future. In conclusion, wildfires are a symptom of deeper issues that require collective attention and action. The path to recovery and effective prevention lies in integrating strategies that address both the climate crisis and rural abandonment. Only then will it be possible to ensure that our forests and the communities that depend on them are protected and resilient against the advance of fire.