The EFPRP Launches Vital Wildfire Recovery Program in Greece
The scars of recent wildfires run deep across the landscape of the Municipality of Megalopolis, Greece. In response to the devastating impact on this rural community, the European Fire Prevention & Rural Preservation Organization (EFPRP) has launched a crucial pilot program to assess the extent of the damage and initiate recovery efforts.
The EFPRP team will arrive to Greece, embarking on a detailed evaluation of the wildfire's impact. This assessment is not just about quantifying the loss of homes and infrastructure; it's about understanding the broader consequences for the environment, and the very fabric of the community.
"Our goal is to gather comprehensive data that will inform a robust and sustainable recovery plan [...]," explains Alexios Elizalde Xirokosta, Executive Director of the EFPRP, also stating that "[...] we're here to work alongside the residents of the municipality, to listen to their needs, and to support them in rebuilding their lives."
This pilot program serves as a critical first step in a larger initiative to raise funds and mobilize resources for the restoration of the municipality's villages and other rural communities affected by wildfires. The EFPRP aims to establish a replicable model for wildfire recovery across Europe, focusing on both immediate relief and long-term resilience.
The assessment will encompass:
- Structural Damage: Evaluating the destruction of homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
- Environmental Impact: Assessing the damage to forests, agricultural land, and water resources.
- Community Needs: Understanding the social and economic challenges faced by residents.
The EFPRP's approach emphasizes collaboration and community engagement. By working closely with local authorities and residents, the organization aims to ensure that recovery efforts are tailored to the specific needs of the community.
"We believe that rural communities are the heart of Europe's cultural and environmental heritage [...]" states Alexios Elizalde Xirokosta, Executive Director of the EFPRP, adding that "By supporting the villages of the municipality, we're investing in the future of these vital communities."
The EFPRP calls upon individuals, organizations, and governments to join them in this crucial mission.
- EFPRP Administration & Board Department
