EU Coordinates Record Response to Wildfires, Highlighting Climate Change Impact

29 Activations of Civil Protection Mechanism This Year as Europe Becomes World's Fastest Warming Continent

The European Union has coordinated more responses to wildfires this year than ever before, highlighting the increasing impact of climate change on the world.

The EU's Civil Protection Mechanism has been activated 29 times this year, as Europe becomes the world's fastest warming continent.

How the EU Responds to Wildfires

When the scale of a wildfire overwhelms the response capabilities of a country, it can request assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.

The EU's 24/7 Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC) monitors fires of concern and maintains close contact with the authorities of the affected countries.

The Copernicus Emergency Management Service (CEMS) continuously monitors the impact of fires in the Mediterranean region.

Climate Change and Wildfires

Climate change is a major factor in the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires. Rising temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns create conditions that are more favorable for fires to start and spread.

According to the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS), the number of wildfires in Europe has increased by 50% since the 1980s.

The Impact of Wildfires

Wildfires can have a devastating impact on people, the environment, and the economy.

• They can cause loss of life and property.
• They can damage infrastructure and ecosystems.
• They can lead to air pollution and health problems.
• They can disrupt economic activity.

The EU's Role in Combating Wildfires

The EU is committed to combating wildfires and mitigating their impact.

The EU provides financial and technical assistance to countries affected by wildfires.

The EU also supports research into wildfire prevention and suppression.

What Can We Do to Help?

There are a number of things we can do to help prevent and mitigate the impact of wildfires.

• Be careful with fire when you are outdoors.
• Report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
• Support organizations that are working to combat wildfires.

By working together, we can reduce the risk of wildfires and protect our communities.