Shifting to a holistic approach in national wildfire management policies: the Italian case

Recent fire seasons have highlighted the growing threats posed by wildfires, despite efforts in suppression policies. These challenges arise from the complex interplay of climate change, fuel availability, land use, and socio-economic conditions. In Italy, the community of scientists, policy- and decision-makers, and practitioners is converging on the urgent need for changes in the prevailing paradigm that governs wildfire policy and management strategies, and advocate for new perspectives and a holistic approach that integrates prevention, mitigation, and response strategies. In recent years, Italy has significantly restructured its wildfire governance system, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of shifting paradigms in fire management in Europe. This paper examines the current wildfire management in Italy, providing a historical timeline of wildfire management in the country and highlighting its distinct features compared to other Mediterranean countries. Conducting an exhaustive review of recent Italian scientific research on wildfire management, this study outlines key observations that highlight areas for improvement. The paper finally aims to provide specific recommendations, presented as future policy considerations, for improving the resilience and sustainability of the Italian wildfire management system.