Lazio, one of the regions of Italy with more than 40 % of its territory covered by vegetation, is particularly vulnerable. Since 2017, fires have increased by 124.8%, a worrying trend. And just in 2022 it recorded as many as 4,336 fires. Forest fires have consequences for the environment, economy and health: destroyed vegetation impacts on biodiversity, climate and soil protection; economic damage affects infrastructure, agriculture and tourism; air pollution undermines human and animal health.
The main causes are attributable to climate change and human activity. The warmer climate and reduced rainfall favour the spread of fire, while arson, agriculture and recreational activities contribute significantly to the increased risk of fire. Preventive measures include reducing human activities at risk, improving forest management and education on prevention.
THE ANGELS, a voluntary organisation active in the civil protection of Rome's 10th municipality, has played a crucial role in preventing and fighting fires in Lazio since 1995. Volunteers of all ages and professions dedicate themselves with passion and commitment with the annual AIB (Anti Incendio Boschivo) campaign to the prevention, surveillance and extinguishing of fires. In the 10th Municipality alone, over 190 interventions were carried out in 2022 and the risk persists in 2023, despite less dramatic weather conditions.
THE ANGELS have also distinguished themselves on national interventions and during the management of emergencies such as the 2016 Amatrice earthquake. While the challenge of forest fires requires global efforts to address its causes, implementing preventive measures and supporting local-level groups like this enables concrete protective measures to be put in place for our territories and the communities that inhabit them.