Bulgaria's Struggle with Forest Fires
Bulgaria faces a significant challenge with forest fires, ranking second only to Cyprus in Europe in 2024, according to the European Forest Fire Information System. Each year, approximately 600 fires erupt, impacting nearly 10,000 hectares of land and causing economic losses of around 2.5 million euros. This year is projected to be the worst for Bulgarian forests in recent history.
Negligence and arson are identified as the primary causes of these fires, compounded by years of detrimental practices in agriculture and electricity distribution. Engineer Tihomir Tomanov, Executive Director of the Association of Municipal Forests, emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive fire prevention strategies and sustainable forest management to address this ecological crisis. He also criticizes the passive approach of authorities and institutions responsible for combating this phenomenon.
Investments in fire prevention are primarily channeled through European programs for rural areas and the environment. However, engineer Tomanov highlights that half of Bulgaria's forests fall into the high-risk category for fires, underscoring the severity of the situation.