Editorial: La Vanguardia

• Catalunya has seen fewer forest fires this year, largely thanks to June rains and the absence of the 30-30-30 danger factor that firefighters fear (days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, winds over 30 km/h and less than 30% humidity).
• The reduction in fires is not due to better forest policies or more effective care of the forests. The abandonment of forests and lack of cleaning have turned these places into huge fuel deposits.
• It is necessary to improve resources and legislation to develop a sufficient and effective forest policy in Catalunya. Sustainable exploitation of forests should also be promoted and the budget divided to give two thirds to forest fire prevention.
• The abandonment of rural life and farmland is troublesome, as it makes them prone to fire instead of act as protective barriers.

Conclusion: Caring for forests and the rural environment is key in light of global warming, heatwaves and drought episodes. Urgent action is needed to prevent next summer's fires through investment in forest policies, public awareness, and fire prevention.

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