India's Resolution on Strengthening the Global Management of Wildfires
Context:
India's resolution on Strengthening the Global Management of Wildfires was successfully adopted at the 7th Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, Kenya.
The resolution received wide support, highlighting the urgent need to address the escalating threat of wildfires globally.
Key Provisions of the Resolution:
Strengthened International Cooperation:
It calls for developing early warning systems, risk assessment tools, and satellite/ground-based ecosystem monitoring.
Global Fire Management Hub:
It reinforces the role of this hub (established by FAO and UNEP in 2023) as a key mechanism for supporting international efforts
It emphasizes moving from a reactive response to proactive prevention through better planning and risk reduction.
It focuses on creating platforms for knowledge sharing, best practices, and training programs.
It urges support for Member States in accessing international finance for wildfire resilience projects.
Causes of Wildfires in India:
Anthropogenic:
Over 90% of forest fires in India are man-made,
These are caused by shifting cultivation (Jhum), collection of non-timber forest products (like Mahua flowers), and accidental fires from tourism or waste burning.
Climatic:
Severe heatwaves, prolonged droughts, and dry fuel accumulation have intensified fire seasons.
The 2024-25 season in UP was its most severe on record due to these factors
The most vulnerable areas include the Himalayas, Northeast India (due to slash-and-burn practices), and Central Indian dry deciduous forests.
Forest fires contribute significantly to India’s CO2 emissions (estimated at ~69 million tonnes annually) and degrade air quality, contributing to severe haze episodes
Global Context (UNEP Report):
India cited the UNEP report “Spreading Like Wildfire” which warns that wildfires could increase by 14% by 2030 and 50% by 2100 if current trends continue.