Preventing bushfires: why is this not being done?

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With bushfires increasing in number, intensity, size, and impact, it is time we asked why this is happening and what can be done to reduce the number of fires and the damage caused.

The argument around bushfire prevention is presented in a newly published book titled 'Feeling the Heat: International Perspectives on the Prevention of Wildfire'. This book reviews current international knowledge and presents new findings on political, spatial, psychological, socio-ecological and socio-economic risk factors.

In this webinar, authors Janet Stanley and Alan March argue that much greater attention could, and should, be given to preventing these fires. Such prevention measures range from the critical importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to addressing the psychological and socio-economic drivers of arson. In particular, these approaches will  require a coordinated and collaborative approach across all sectors, including governance and local communities. Roz Hansen will respond to the speakers from an urban planning perspective.

SPEAKERS

A/Professor Janet Stanley is Principal Research Fellow, Melbourne Sustainable Society Institute, School of Design, University of Melbourne. She specialises in the integration of social, environmental and economic values and outcomes, particularly around issues of social justice and equity.

Professor Alan March teaches and researches urban planning, specialising in extreme events, including bushfire. He is particularly interested in the ways that planning and design can modify disaster risks, and researches urban design principles for bushfire.

Roz Hansen is Professorial Fellow in the School of Design, The University of Melbourne. She specialises in strategic and development planning, policy analysis, conservation planning, and training and capacity building.