Climate and Wildfire Interface Study for Europe (CHASE)

General Overview

The CHASE project addresses the urgent need to understand the impacts of climate change on wildfires, particularly in the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). By analysing historical wildfires and their interplay with climatic conditions, CHASE aims to enhance knowledge of the climate-fire-human nexus. The project will deliver open-access data and tools for risk assessments, ultimately boosting environmental sustainability and community resilience in a changing climate.

Purpose and Significance

The CHASE project tackles the increasing intensity of fire weather conditions due to climate change and the heightened vulnerability of WUI regions. It seeks to deepen understanding of fire dynamics and evaluate the spatiotemporal changes in human exposure within the WUI. By preserving, sharing, and reusing newly acquired scientific findings and methodologies, CHASE aims to foster future applications. This initiative aligns with EUniWell's objectives of promoting well-being through environmental sustainability and responsible resource management.

An image of wildfire's smoke on a mountain

© Neil Mark Thomas on Unsplash

Implementation Method and Timeline

The project involves multiple universities, including the University of Murcia, the University of Florence, the University of Santiago de Compostela, and the University of Birmingham. Methodologically, CHASE focuses on comprehensive data collection, historical trend analysis, and effective dissemination. Key phases include:

  • Project coordination and management
  • Data management
  • Assessment of past changes
  • Dissemination and transfer of data and knowledge

 The project runs from its launch in 2024 to its conclusion in 2025, with mid-term and final-term stakeholder meetings planned for key milestones.

Expected Outcomes

CHASE aims to deliver:

  • Open-access databases and tools for fire data, susceptibility maps, and human exposure assessments
  • Insights for fire prevention strategies
  • Information for planning and risk communication
  • Improved fire management policies

Ultimately, CHASE will enhance public awareness and preparedness for wildfire events and foster a collaborative research community.

Contact:

Marco Turco, University of Murcia
Miguel Ángel Torres-Vázquez, University of Murcia
Federico Martellozzo, University of Florence
Filippo Randelli, University of Florence
Gonzalo Miguez-Macho, University of Santiago de Compostela
Nick Kettridge, University of Birmingham