Portugal reduces forest fires thanks to education and new management strategies.

Since 2017, Portugal has achieved a significant decrease in the number of forest fires, which had previously claimed the lives of over 100 people and devastated around 500,000 hectares in a single year. This drastic change in fire management has been accomplished through a series of prevention initiatives implemented by the Agency for Integrated Management of Forest Fires (AGIF). In a context marked by tragedy, the country was compelled to rethink its approach to forest fires, resulting in innovative strategies and a strong social commitment. The "Portugal Chama" ("Portugal Calls You") campaign was the first step toward this change. Tiago Oliveira, president of AGIF, explained that this initiative began in 2018 with a clear message: to involve all citizens in fire prevention. In its first year, the campaign had a notable impact on public awareness, leading to a reduction in the frequency of fires. If around 20,000 fires were recorded annually before 2019, last year that number dropped to just 7,000. AGIF's approach was not limited to awareness campaigns. Communication channels were established so that the population could consult about the use of fire, especially in agricultural activities. This interaction has allowed citizens to feel more responsible and aware of the consequences of their actions, generating a change in the culture of fire use. Oliveira highlighted that this behavioral change has been fundamental in the fight against fires. Despite the achievements made in recent years, AGIF does not stop there. Until 2026, a new phase of the campaign will be implemented, which will include a more personalized and direct approach, such as door-to-door visits by the National Republican Guard. Additionally, educational programs will be integrated into schools to teach children about fire prevention from an early age. The latest statistics are encouraging. According to the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF), as of August 15, 2024, Portugal has recorded the lowest number of fires and the least burned area since 2014. However, vigilance must not be lowered; August has become the month with the most burned area this year, doubling the figures from July. This increase highlights that although progress has been made, the fight against forest fires is an ongoing challenge. Oliveira noted that climatic variability has also played a crucial role in the reduction of fires, stating that a milder summer has contributed to limiting the spread of flames. However, the change in the population's mindset has undoubtedly been the main driving force behind this positive trend. This year, with 3,500 fires, Portugal has shown that education and awareness can be as effective as direct combat measures. At the European level, the situation regarding forest fires remains concerning. A report published in the journal 'Earth System Science Data' shows that while fires have been contained, they have had devastating effects on infrastructure, water supply, and local economies in other European countries. The need for more effective coordination among firefighting forces from various countries becomes evident, and Oliveira suggests that Europe could learn from successful collaboration models, such as those of Canada and the United States. Furthermore, Oliveira emphasizes the importance of articulating agricultural policies that promote proper forest management and minimize fires. The Common Agricultural Policy should be an ally in this effort, allowing farmers to adopt practices that keep vegetation under control and prevent the accumulation of combustible material. The Evros fire in Greece, which burned 938 square kilometers in 2023, highlights the magnitude of the challenge facing Europe in the fight against forest fires. This event has been the most devastating recorded in the European Union and shows that Portugal's experience could serve as a model, not only to improve national practices but also to collaborate regionally in fire prevention and control. Looking to the future, it is essential for Portugal to continue developing its comprehensive fire management strategy, learning from its experiences and adapting to new challenges. The combination of education, innovation in management, and sustainable agricultural policies could pave the way for a future in which forest fires are less devastating and more controllable.