Scientists say rising temperatures and reduced rainfall worsen forest fire risks across Europe.
The 2025 wildfire season has already shattered records for land burned.
Unprecedented Damage Across the Continent
Fires destroyed over one million hectares in the EU, exceeding Corsica’s total area.
That area burned is more than four times last year’s total.
Authorities declared over 1,800 forest fires, releasing more than 38 million tonnes of CO₂.
Only the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, and Malta reported zero wildfires.
Italy and Romania each recorded more than 450 fires.
Cyprus reported three fires, yet those blazes caused severe damage.
Spain lost over 400,000 hectares, and Portugal lost 260,000 hectares, equaling 3% and 0.8% of their land.
Firefighting Resources Under Pressure
Held warned that these conditions will become more frequent, straining firefighting systems.
He urged governments to prepare landscapes to improve firefighter safety and efficiency.
Authorities can reduce vegetation through clearing, grazing, or controlled burns.
Agroforestry, integrating trees and crops, offers another strategy to protect ecosystems.
