Climate change is increasing the risk of forest fires across Central Europe. Since these fires often affect multiple regions, enhanced cooperation and improved information exchange are essential for effective firefighting. The CROSS ALERT project under Interreg Italy-Slovenia tackles similar challenges by assessing the effectiveness of existing systems for preventing natural disasters and evaluating the aftermath of fires and floods in participating municipalities.
A key element of cross-border cooperation is the involvement of regional authorities and emergency services, aiming to empower local communities and organizations with shared knowledge, tools, and coordinated measures. In this spirit, WILDFIRE CE organized several cross-border regional workshops involving key stakeholders from both sides of the border. One such workshop took place in Ajdovščina on 22 October 2024.
To enhance preparedness and foster collaboration, we decided to unite the WILDFIRE CE and CROSS ALERT projects, inviting our cross-border partners to share their expertise. Together, we highlighted best practices and addressed challenges—including legal, organizational, and operational issues—in cross-border cooperation. The workshop offered vital insights for tackling these issues at national and cross-border levels. Most importantly, we concluded that mutual cooperation is essential to improving the current situation in the cross-border area.