FABRICSClimate change is an unavoidable reality, with an increasing number of hazards threatening populations and ecosystems worldwide. Recent fires indicate that Ukraine, due to climate change and a complex socio-economic situation, is one of the countries with a high risk of uncontrolled fires with catastrophic consequences for the population and the environment. The territories covered by the fire prevention units of the project partners are part of national parks covered by forests (almost 46% of the Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast and 37.4% of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship are forested) and are areas of potential danger.
This project aims to integrate modern methodologies, technologies, and ecosystem approaches for a more effective joint prevention, detection, monitoring, and suppression of forest fires by Ukrainian and Polish partners in the cross-border area. An important part of it are the four 2-day Ukrainian-Polish training sessions (2 in each country – for 24 people each: 12 from Ukraine and 12 from Poland). Part of the modern approach to forest protection is the establishment of research focused on the use of natural solutions to prevent forest fires. The project does not forget to support of activities by the general public. The planned activities to develop the capacity of the local civic sector include 6 training sessions for a total of 110 people from Poland and Ukraine, educational activities for children – competitions with master classes and camps (a total of 450 participants, Ukrainian partner), seminars on climate risks and prevention methods for self-government officials (a total of 200 people, both countries). Moreover, the construction of the Podkarpackie Rescue Centre in Tarnobrzeg of the total area – at least 800 square meters will enhance the capacity for managing and coordinating cross-border rescue activities, particularly in combating environmental threats such as forest fires and water-related emergencies, is planned. Acquisition of 3 specialised fire engines to be deployed to mountain fire units in the Ivano-Frankivsk oblast. One of them is a specialised rescue vehicle equipped with a robotic firefighting system and a drone, which will allow the firefighters to quickly reach the scene of a fire and effectively collect data, assess and control the situation on the ground.
The project is expected to significantly improve forest fire response capacity and reduce the consequences of forest fires, as well as allow for cost-effective resource use adapted to local conditions. We will feel safer in these times full of danger.
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