Search Results (209)

This study quantitatively analyzed the impact of concurrent large-scale wildfires that occurred in Korea in March 2025 on air quality in agricultural regions and identified potential risks to agricultural workers. Analysis of air quality data from eight agricultural sites nationwide revealed that the average concentrations of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 during the wildfire period increased by 47.3% and 24.9%, respectively, compared to non-fire periods. Multiple regression analysis indicated that PM₁₀ concentrations were dominated by physical dispersion and dilution effects driven by variables such as wind speed and distance. In contrast, PM_2.5 showed a strong positive correlation with relative humidity, suggesting it is significantly influenced by secondary formation and atmospheric stagnation. Notably, the potential for particulate matter accumulation was confirmed during high-humidity hours when atmospheric inversion layers form, combined with the basin topography characteristic of Korean rural areas. This implies that elderly agricultural workers may be exposed to high concentrations of hazardous substances even when smoke is not visually apparent. Therefore, this study suggests the necessity of establishing specific protective measures for agricultural workers, including the introduction of targeted, site-specific forecasting (“pinpoint forecasts”) for downwind farmlands and restrictions on outdoor work during early morning hours. Full article

Land abandonment and recurrent wildfires are major drivers of landscape transformation in Mediterranean Europe, creating favorable conditions for the spread of non-native invasive woody species. Among these, Australian wattles (genus Acacia) are particularly widespread and problematic in Portugal. This work analyzed the spatiotemporal dynamics of Acacia spp. in two municipalities of central Portugal (Sertã and Pedrógão-Grande) by combining multitemporal photointerpretation of aerial imagery (2004–2021), generalized additive models (GAMs), and local perception surveys. Results reveal a 417% increase in occupied area over the last two decades. Modeling outcomes indicate a temporal shift in invasion drivers: from an establishment phase (2004–2010), mainly constrained by altitude and proximity to primary introduction sites, to a disturbance-driven expansion phase (2010–2021), influenced by fire recurrence, slope, and land-use context. Spatial clustering persisted throughout, underscoring the role of founder populations. Surveys confirmed high public awareness of Acacia invasiveness and identified abandonment and wildfire as the main perceived triggers of spread. By integrating ecological and social dimensions, this study provides a socioecological perspective on Acacia spp. expansion in Mediterranean rural landscapes and highlights the urgent need for integrated, landscape-scale management strategies. Full article

The island of Gran Canaria (Spain) has undergone a significant transformation in wildfire dynamics over the past two decades, characterized by a decline in wildfire frequency but a marked increase in the severity and spatial impact of extreme events, particularly within the wildland–urban interface (WUI). This study analyzes wildfire activity between 2000 and 2020 using official datasets and statistical trend analyses, incorporating robust severity indicators and measures of burned area concentration. Results show a statistically significant decreasing trend in the number of wildfires, while burned area is extremely concentrated in a small number of high-intensity events, with four large wildfires accounting for more than 97% of the total affected area. Climatic influences on wildfire activity were assessed through the analysis of long-term meteorological indicators, focusing on trends in extreme heat days and precipitation as proxies for thermal stress and fuel moisture availability. The results indicate a substantial modification of the background climatic framework under which wildfires develop, although no direct causal relationships are inferred. In parallel, territorial processes—such as rural abandonment, increased fuel continuity, and the expansion of dispersed housing beyond consolidated settlements—act as key amplifiers of wildfire risk. Overall, the findings highlight a transition from emergency-oriented fire suppression toward resilience-based wildfire management, emphasizing the need to integrate climate adaptation, territorial planning, and stricter land-use regulation in WUI areas. Full article

As climate change increases the frequency and unpredictability of natural hazards, adapting critical infrastructure is crucial for long-term resilience. Among these hazards, embankment fires pose a growing threat to railway systems, particularly under rising temperatures and prolonged drought conditions. As part of the Horizon Europe project NATURE-DEMO, this study helps identify fire-prone rail segments and explore nature-based solutions, such as vegetation barriers, that can reduce ignition risk and enhance infrastructure resilience. In a case study, we analysed the risk of embankment fires for a section of the German railway network in detail. Based on an embankment-fire hazard indication map available for the entire German railway network, five hotspots within the study area were identified. Embankments with high fire susceptibility occur in both rural and urban areas, covering 1.1% of the study area. On the basis of published research on technical and nature-based solutions for reducing embankment fire susceptibility, we derived site-specific recommendations for the appropriate implementation of mitigation measures. Full article

The increasing dependence of rural communities on forest resources contributes significantly to deforestation and ecosystem degradation in West Africa. The Ouémé Supérieur Classified Forest (OSCF), one of Benin’s largest forest reserves, is under growing anthropogenic pressure. This study assessed the spatial distribution and relationships between key degradation drivers (anthropogenic disturbances)—logging, agriculture, charcoal production, fire, and grazing—in the OSCF. Field inventories were conducted in 300 plots of 500 m² each, organized across 15 transects. Data were analyzed using presence/absence indices, frequency calculations, Friedman tests, simple correspondence analysis, and linear regressions. Results showed that disturbances are unevenly distributed across the forest. Logging and agriculture emerged as the most frequent pressures, with agricultural activities strongly associated with transects near densely populated villages. Regression analysis revealed a relatively strong correlation between distance from edge to the interior of the forest and agricultural area (adjusted R² = 0.61). Logging and fire-related activities are concentrated at the forest edge, while agriculture expanded toward the interior. Logging is present in all plots sampled. Chi-square tests revealed significant associations between agriculture, charcoal production, and fire. These findings highlight the complex and interlinked nature of the anthropogenic disturbances and underscore the need for locally tailored, participatory forest management strategies. Full article

This paper presents the design, development, and field testing of an Operational Fire Management System (OFMS) aimed at enhancing situational awareness and improving the safety and efficiency of firefighting operations. The system integrates real-time intelligence and remote monitoring to provide emergency management personnel and first responders with accurate information on vehicle location, communication status, and water level monitoring. Developed in collaboration with the Australian Capital Territory Rural Fire Service (ACT RFS), the OFMS prototype encompasses three core subsystems: the Monitoring and Environmental Sensing Subsystem (MESS), the Communication and Vital Monitoring Subsystem (CVMS), and the Command-and-Control Interface Subsystem (CCIS). MESS introduces a tilt-compensated ultrasonic algorithm for accurate water level estimation in moving fire trucks, CVMS leverages an open-source smartwatch with LoRa communication for real-time physiological tracking, and CCIS offers a cloud-based interface for live visualisation and coordination. Together, these subsystems form a practical and scalable framework for supporting frontline operations, particularly in rural firefighting contexts where vehicles are required to operate off-road and deliver large volumes of water to isolated locations. By providing real-time visibility of resource availability and crew status, the system strengthens operational coordination and decision-making in environments where connectivity is often limited. This paper discusses the design and implementation of the prototype, highlights key performance results, and outlines opportunities for future development, including improved environmental resilience, expanded sensor integration, and multi-agency interoperability. The findings confirm that the OFMS represents a novel and field-ready approach to fireground management, empowering firefighting teams to respond more effectively to emergencies and better protect lives, property, and the environment. Full article

This study presents a fire risk assessment of traditional wooden dwellings in Southern Hunan, focusing on Zhoujia Compound—a nationally protected cultural heritage site. By applying Pyrosim fire simulation software, we modeled fire spread, smoke dispersion, and temperature variation under localized architectural and environmental conditions. The simulations, informed by real-time wind speed monitoring, revealed that key fire risks stem from open flame activities during festivals, charcoal heating, and inadequate electrical wiring. Structural features such as interconnected wooden beams and open courtyards exacerbate fire spread. The results identified high-risk zones and demonstrated that wind speed and building orientation significantly affect fire dynamics. Based on these findings, we propose targeted fire prevention strategies, including fire-retardant treatments, improved compartmentalization, and community-level fire education. This research offers a novel, simulation-based approach to improving fire safety in traditional villages, contributing to both cultural heritage protection and rural fire risk mitigation. Full article

The Amazon hosts one of the richest diversities of mosquitoes in the family Culicidae, which are key both as arbovirus vectors and as environmental bioindicators. However, the state of Amapá remains poorly studied regarding its mosquito fauna. This study aimed to characterize the diversity and seasonal composition of Culicidae in the municipality of Mazagão, Eastern Amazon, within a rural landscape influenced by human activity and extreme climatic events. Three sampling campaigns were conducted between 2023 and 2024, covering rainy, intermediary, and dry periods. Mosquitoes were collected using Protected Human Attraction (PHA) and CDC light traps at both ground and canopy strata. A total of 3500 specimens were obtained, representing 38 species across 15 genera. The intermediary period yielded the highest abundance and richness, whereas the dry season presented very low diversity, probably because of severe drought and forest fires. Dominant species included Coquillettidia (Rhy.) venezuelensis, Cq. albicosta, and Mansonia titillans. There were significant differences in community diversity between dry and wetter periods, underscoring the strong role of seasonality in shaping mosquito populations. These findings represent the entomofaunistic survey of the region, contributing to biodiversity knowledge and highlighting potential public health risks, thus reinforcing the need for continuous entomological monitoring. Full article

Myanmar’s electricity supply relies mainly on hydropower and gas-fired generation, yet rural electrification remains limited, with national access at approximately 60%. The National Electrification Plan (NEP) aims for universal access via nationwide grid expansion, but progress in remote areas is constrained by financial limits and suspended external funding. This study evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of decentralized microgrids as an alternative to conventional grid extension under current budgetary conditions. We integrate a terrain-adjusted MV line-cost model with (i) PLEXOS capacity expansion and chronological dispatch for centralized supply and (ii) HOMER Pro optimization for PV–diesel–battery microgrids. Key indicators include LCOE, NPC, CAPEX, OPEX, reliability (ASAI/max shortage), renewable fraction, and unserved energy. Sensitivity analyses cover diesel, PV, and battery prices, as well as discount rate variations. The results show microgrids are more cost-effective in terrain-constrained regions such as Chin State, particularly when accounting for transmission and delayed generation costs, whereas grid extension remains preferable in flat, accessible regions like Nay Pyi Taw. Diesel price is the dominant cost driver across both regions, while battery cost and discount rate affect Chin State more, and PV cost is critical in Nay Pyi Taw’s solar-rich context. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for rural electrification strategies in Myanmar and other developing countries facing similar financial and infrastructural challenges. Full article

This study aims to evaluate the Ban Ko Groundwater Development Project in Li District, Lamphun Province, which seeks to address PM2.5 pollution from forest fires through rural economic development. The Social Return on Investment (SROI) approach was applied to assess the project’s social return ratio (SRR), revealing that the intervention lacked cost-effectiveness and did not yield sufficient social or economic returns on investment. Decision Tree analysis indicated that economic benefits significantly influenced positive behavioral change toward environmental conservation; however, the magnitude of this change was insufficient to generate substantial environmental improvements. Furthermore, the application of the Collective Interest Model (CIM) revealed that several social factors including personal pro-environmental tendencies, perceived group efficacy, civic responsibility, economic incentives, education, and age contributed to individuals’ decisions to engage in environmental problem-solving. These findings suggest that future economic development efforts must be integrated with social dimensions to foster sustainable environmental solutions in rural contexts. Full article

Background: Rural fires, worsened by climate factors such as drought, biomass buildup, and ignition sources, threaten sustainability. Recovering residual biomass (RB) presents a promising way to lower fire risk by reducing fuel loads and generating renewable energy; however, logistical costs in the RB supply chain—due to poor stakeholder coordination—limit its feasibility. App-based models can help solve these issues by improving information sharing, but their economic viability remains largely unexplored. This study suggests that such models work well when large amounts of biomass are involved and moisture content is low. Still, they might need external incentives for widespread use and fire risk reduction. Methods: The study modeled recovery scenarios by comparing costs (harvesting, retrieval, transport, and pre-processing) with biomass market value, using expert inputs and sensitivity analysis on variables like fuel prices and wages. Results: The economic feasibility is possible for large volumes (e.g., 10-ton loads) with low moisture (<30%), allowing transportation distances up to 459 km; however, small-scale or high-moisture situations often are not viable without support. Conclusions: App-based models need external support, like subsidies, to overcome owner and RB challenges, ensuring effective fire mitigation and sustainability benefits. Full article

Background: Rural fires represent a significant environmental and socioeconomic challenge in Mediterranean regions, particularly in Portugal, which experiences some of the highest fire incidences in Europe. Understanding the temporal evolution of fire occurrences and their relationship with climatic parameters is crucial for developing effective fire management strategies and adapting to climate change impacts. This study aims to analyze the evolution of rural fire occurrences in Guimarães, northern Portugal, during the period 1980–2020, and to investigate their relationship with climatic parameters, specifically temperature and precipitation patterns. Methods: We analyzed a comprehensive dataset of rural fire occurrences and burnt areas in the Guimarães municipality from 1980 to 2020, along with corresponding climatic data including mean annual temperature and total annual precipitation. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Mann–Kendall trend analysis, Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression modeling. The relationships between fire variables and climatic parameters were examined using both parametric and non-parametric approaches. Results: The analysis revealed significant temporal trends and climate–fire relationships. Mean annual temperature showed a statistically significant increasing trend (Mann–Kendall Z = 3.055, p = 0.002) with a Sen’s slope of 0.032 °C/year, representing approximately 1.3 °C warming over the 40-year period. Rural fire occurrences demonstrated a positive correlation with mean temperature (Pearson r = 0.459, p = 0.003; Spearman ρ = 0.453, p = 0.003), while total burnt area also showed significant positive correlation with temperature (Pearson r = 0.426, p = 0.005; Spearman ρ = 0.466, p = 0.002). Precipitation showed no significant correlation with fire variables. Multiple regression models explained 23.1% of the variance in fire occurrences and 18.3% of the variance in burnt area, with temperature being the primary climatic predictor. Conclusions: The study provides evidence of a significant warming trend in Guimarães over the past four decades, which is positively associated with increased rural fire activity. The consistent relationship between temperature and fire variables suggests that continued climate warming may lead to increased fire risk in the region. These findings have important implications for fire management strategies and climate adaptation planning in northern Portugal. Full article

Agroforestry landscape has undergone changes, namely land abandonment, which when combined with negative attitudes towards fire, is associated with the eradication of agroforestry leftovers and acts towards the proliferation of fires, threatening sustainability concerns. Agroforestry leftovers recovery presents high potential to act on this problem; however, the logistical costs associated with the recovery chain make it unfeasible. The lack of coordination/transparency between stakeholders is one of the main explanations for these costs. This study develops a digital tool to enhance the residual biomass supply chain for energy recovery and fire risk mitigation. In addition to this concept, this work also proposes conceptual models and a prototype, two essential contributions to software development. Methodologically, this study consulted 10 experts to validate a concept previously presented in the literature, supplemented with UML modeling and prototyping with Figma^®. The main results point to the creation of a disruptive concept that will allow access to information/transparency about agroforestry services, with the goal that this will improve the functioning of the RBSC, resulting in a reduction in fire risk and, consequently, improvements in sustainability concerns associated with this hazard. Full article

This study presents a validated drone-based methodology for inspecting fire protection belts in Galicia, Spain, with a focus on secondary protection belts surrounding settlements. Current manual inspection methods are limited by resource constraints and inefficiency, especially given Galicia’s steep slopes and fragmented, vegetated terrain. Our integrated approach combines high-resolution drone imagery, RTK positioning, GIS tools, and the Time2Parcel algorithm, enabling synchronized, parcel-level documentation at cadastral scale and allowing office-based technicians to directly review automatically generated video segments specific to each parcel for inspection verification. The methodology employs a hybrid classification system: automated assessments via orthophoto and LiDAR analysis and manual verification for cases with low confidence scores. Government technicians can perform office-based reviews without GIS expertise; the system automatically matches video to cadastral records, eliminating manual video review. Key results include the Time2Parcel algorithm for automatic video-to-parcel correlation, completion of inspections for 4934 parcels, and an operational efficiency increase of 68–70% reduction in inspection time compared with traditional methods. This workflow enables faster, safer, and more accurate inspections in highly fragmented rural contexts, improving legal compliance and environmental management. Full article

Landsat time series data, which have become freely available in recent years, are commonly used to detect changes in land cover and monitor ecosystem disturbances. Thyme habitats are areas under protection due to their high ecological value. However, human activity leading to land use competition, mainly from overgrazing, poses an increased threat to these habitats. The impact of these disturbances is underreported, and their detection remains essential for thyme conservation. The island of Lemnos was chosen as the study area, because of the significant areas of thyme habitats, which are currently under pressure due to rural abandonment, desertification, overgrazing, and systematic fires in recent decades. A long-term Landsat time series was generated, and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated. The change detection algorithm (BFAST) was used to detect and characterize significant changes (breakpoints) within the time series and compare them to local fire events. The analysis showed that Lemnos thyme habitats have been significantly reduced in size due to fires and their conversion to new grazing areas for livestock production. Measures should be taken to conserve thyme habitats with the participation of local stakeholders, including livestock farmers and beekeepers. Satellite monitoring techniques are important tools that could facilitate this conservation process. Full article