Wildfires in the Karst are no longer an exception – they are becoming increasingly frequent and intense. After the devastating fires of 2022, which affected more than 4,000 hectares, one thing became clear: safety is not only about firefighting, but above all about prevention.
Karst Firewall 5.0 places exactly this at the center – how wildfire risks can be reduced already at the stage of spatial planning, landscape management, and everyday decisions.
In a recent interview with the project’s lead partner, key challenges and solutions for reducing wildfire risks in the cross-border Karst area were presented.
Fire does not know borders
The Karst is a cross-border region between Slovenia and Italy, where fires can quickly spread from one country to another. This makes cooperation essential.
The project brings together researchers, municipalities, firefighters, foresters, civil protection units, and local communities – all working toward a shared goal: reducing wildfire risks and protecting people and nature.
Less firefighting, more prevention
“The idea is to do as much preventive work as possible before wildfires even spread,” emphasizes Dr. Massimiliano Granceri Bradaschia, project leader.
The project develops:
- vulnerability and risk maps,
- predictive wildfire models,
- digital tools for early detection,
- and concrete on-the-ground measures.
The goal? Fewer interventions, less damage, and greater safety.
How landscape can protect against fire
One of the project’s key findings is that the way we manage space significantly influences how fires spread.
Dispersed construction within forest areas increases risk. In contrast, compact settlements surrounded by agricultural or grassland areas are much safer and more resilient.
Such “buffer zones” can slow down or even stop the spread of fire.
The key role of the community
Technology alone is not enough. Everyday decisions made by people also play a crucial role.
From land management to participation in local initiatives – it is the community that can make the biggest difference in wildfire prevention.
A voice that needs to be heard
The project also highlights the importance of communication and public engagement.
Only if information reaches people can behavior change – and with it, the level of risk.
Read the full interview HERE.
Access the full Spring 2026 issue of EU Research magazine HERE.
