The catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles have drawn attention in Spain, a country that faces similar threats each year. Prolonged drought, strong winds, and dense vegetation make Spain highly susceptible to large-scale fires.
As these disasters grow in frequency and intensity, experts argue that Spain can learn valuable lessons from California’s experience to mitigate future risks.
The problem – drought, wind, and overgrown landscapes
Spain’s Mediterranean climate, characterised by hot, dry summers and mild winters, mirrors that of California. These conditions, combined with overgrown vegetation and rural depopulation, create an ideal environment for wildfires to ignite and spread. Despite annual government warnings about the dangers of barbecues or discarded cigarettes, Spain is not immune to catastrophic fires. Experts say the solution lies in transforming the landscape itself.
Introducing mosaic landscapes as a natural firebreak
The concept of “mosaic landscapes,” developed by researchers at the Catalan ecological research centre CREAF, offers a promising approach. These landscapes blend urban areas, agricultural fields, pastures, and natural spaces. The diversity of land use creates natural firebreaks, reducing the likelihood of large-scale fires.
Josep María Espelta, a researcher at CREAF, highlights the value of this approach. “Agricultural lands and pastures are less flammable. They act as barriers, helping firefighters contain fires,” he explains. These firebreaks are especially important in peri-urban areas, where the interface between cities and forests is most vulnerable.
Reviving abandoned agricultural land
Over the past decades, rural depopulation in Spain has led to the abandonment of agricultural land, which has become overgrown and highly flammable. According to Rodrigo Balaguer, lead author of the CREAF study, restoring these areas is essential. “We need to reclaim the agricultural land abandoned since the 1950s and utilise open spaces created by drought,” he suggests.
The study points to specific actions, such as restoring 17,000 hectares of farmland around Barcelona. Doing so could reduce the connectivity of flammable areas, making it harder for fires to spread. In addition to preventing wildfires, these measures could boost biodiversity and revitalise rural economies through new investments in agriculture and livestock farming.
The climate crisis and Its role in wildfires
Although 95% of wildfires in Spain are caused by human activity, the climate crisis is exacerbating the problem. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events are making fires more frequent and intense.
Mónica Parrilla, a forestry engineer and Greenpeace spokesperson, stresses the importance of tackling climate change alongside better land management. “Reducing wildfire risks requires action on greenhouse gas emissions and a transition away from fossil fuels,” she warns.
A path to a safer future
Experts believe that a multi-faceted approach is key to reducing the risk of devastating wildfires. Sustainable land management, repopulating rural areas, and addressing climate change are crucial steps. By investing in mosaic landscapes and restoring abandoned farmland, Spain can create a more resilient environment while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
The solution lies in reconnecting with the countryside. A focus on sustainable agriculture and biodiversity not only helps prevent wildfires but also secures a safer and more sustainable future for Spain.
Also read: Wildfires in Spain 2024