Fire Severity as a Determinant of the Socioeconomic Impact of Wildfires

Abstract

AbstractFire has played a crucial role in shaping Earth's landscapes for millions of years and has been used as a cultural tool for human development for millennia. However, changing fire regimes driven by global change drivers and human influences are reshaping landscapes and leading to more severe wildfires, with significant socioeconomic and environmental consequences. These wildfires have substantial direct impacts on human lives, properties, and mental health, as well as indirect impacts on ecosystem services, negatively affecting provisioning, regulating, and cultural services. In general, severe wildfires disrupt the functioning of ecosystems and the subsequent recovery of the ecosystems services. Remote sensing techniques represent efficient tools for monitoring post-fire ecosystem service recovery. On the other hand, the impact of large fires is perceived differently by society influenced by socioeconomic factors, previous experiences, and community dynamics. Understanding these perceptions is essential for developing effective wildfire management and mitigation strategies at the local level. To address the challenges posed by changing fire regimes, a Fire Smart Territory (FST) approach could be considered, emphasizing integrated fire management that considers prevention, effective response, and post-fire restoration. This approach presented in this book chapter also promotes the involvement of local communities in fire prevention and management. So, the conservation of ecosystem services in fire-prone areas requires a holistic and adaptive approach that incorporates ecological knowledge, societal needs, and sustainable land management practices. By adopting an FST framework and considering the complex interactions between fire, ecosystems, and human communities, it is possible to mitigate the impacts of wildfires and promote resilience in these vulnerable landscapes.