The event aims to showcase new tools, guidelines and regional initiatives that support integrated fire management (IFM), with a focus on practical solutions, community-based approaches, tropical forests, digital innovation and regional collaboration.

IFM is increasingly recognized as essential for strengthening ecosystem and community resilience, supporting sustainable livelihoods and reducing the impacts of wildfires on ecosystems, communities, economies and climate.

Under the broader efforts of the Fire Hub and partners, several knowledge products and regional initiatives are being developed to support countries and practitioners in adopting more integrated, inclusive and practical approaches to fire management. Among these are the Community-Based Fire Management Guidelines, led by the Center for People and Forests (RECOFTC) with support from FAO and other partners, and the International Tropical Timber Organization Tropical IFM Toolkit, which is linked to the Collaborative Partnership on Forests Joint Initiative on IFM in Tropical Forests. 

In parallel, regional efforts such as Near East Network on Wildlands and Forest Fire are helping to advance IFM and digital innovation in the Near East and North Africa region, including through the development of innovative fire information systems and regional cooperation.

Tiina Vahanen
Deputy Director
Forestry Division
FAO

David Ganz
Executive Director
The Center for People and Forests (RECOFTC)

Jennifer Conje
Director of Forest Management
International Tropical Timber Organization

MODERATOR: Lara Steil
Forestry Officer
FAO