Regional initiative to raise public awareness of landscape fire management in the Western Balkans

Landscape fires are a serious threat and a growing challenge for the Western Balkans, leaving long-term consequences for ecosystems, communities and economies.

Through improved regional coordination and the joint action of the line ministries, the Western Balkans Landscape Fire Management Program lays the foundations for raising public awareness of the risks of open fires and increasing the resilience of areas through sustainable management of ecosystems.

Instead of relying solely on traditional approaches focused only on fire suppression, the program applies the concept of integrated landscape fire management, encouraging intersectoral cooperation, strengthening capacity at the local level and increasing the resilience of landscape to effectively respond to fire threats.

Prevention is at the heart of this initiative, with the goal of ensuring sustainable management of natural resources in a way that protects both people and ecosystems alike. The goal is to create fire-resilient communities and areas, which will continue this initiative at the regional level in the future. The regional initiative is supported by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Water Management and Forestry, as a strategic partner, and includes training activities, policy development and practical engagement in the countries of the Western Balkans.

Nature is our shared responsibility and every step towards prevention makes a significant difference. Over 90% of landscape fires in the region are caused by human negligence. This is a fact that clearly indicates the solutions that are under our control. The program calls for collective awareness, participation and responsibility in order to protect our landscape and ensure a safe future for new generations. With joint efforts and a long-term vision, we can strive for an ambitious but achievable goal: zero fires caused by humans.

Thanks to continuous support and partnership with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Water Management and Forestry, the initiative is building a solid foundation for a long-term and sustainable impact in the region. We firmly believe that one procedure changes everything.