Barcelona City Council has started a wildfire prevention programme in the Serra de Collserola this week, investing almost €400,000. The initiative, managed by the Institute of Parks and Gardens, focuses on deforestation to create fire breaks in the natural park.
This measure is a direct response to the increasing risk of forest fires, particularly in Mediterranean forests. Officials said the work involves clearing specific areas of dense vegetation, which helps to slow the spread of any potential blaze.
The nearly €400,000 investment covers the cost of equipment, personnel, and the ongoing maintenance required for these prevention zones. The council's goal is to protect both the natural environment of Collserola and the urban areas bordering the park from fire damage.
Protecting the Natural Park
The Serra de Collserola, a significant green lung for the Barcelona metropolitan area, faces constant threats from climate change and human activity. The current programme builds on previous efforts to manage the park's ecosystem and ensure its long-term sustainability. Creating these fire prevention strips is a standard practice in forest management, according to experts.
The Institute of Parks and Gardens will oversee the project, ensuring that the deforestation work is carried out responsibly and with minimal impact on the park's biodiversity. Future plans include monitoring the effectiveness of these measures and adapting strategies as needed to maintain fire safety.
