Fernández stated that the fight against forest fires will only be possible by combining science, local communities, public policies, and public-private collaboration in prevention. He noted that Catalonia has 64% forest cover, above the European average, which adds complexity to fire management.
According to the secretary, the so-called “sixth-generation fires,” like those experienced this summer in Catalonia, are a result of climate change, continuous forest mass, and the abandonment of agricultural and livestock practices. Therefore, he stressed the need to move from diagnosis to implementation, recognizing the value of land managers and viewing prevention as an investment.
“"The fight against fires will only be possible if we combine science, local communities, public policies, and public-private collaboration in prevention."
Fernández reiterated that fire management is a long-term challenge and strategy for the Government. He recalled that the Generalitat has increased investment in forest management from 35 million euros in 2020 to 100 million euros planned for 2026.
Beyond public resources, he emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about land preservation. The Department of Economy and Finance is exploring measures such as tax deductions to encourage landowners' involvement in forest maintenance and subsidies for local entities to reduce fire risk in urbanized areas. "The Generalitat and municipalities must work together to manage a landscape that helps prevent fires," he concluded.
