Towards an Integrated Wildfire Risk Management in Iceland - Diagnostic and Recommendations

Overview & Synopsis

The risk of wildfires in Iceland is rising significantly. This risk is linked to climate change, evolving land use patterns, and growing vegetation. Afforestation areas, recreational zones, and areas in the vicinity of vegetation are particularly vulnerable. There is an urgent need to strengthen Iceland's capacity across the wildfire management spectrum. The diagnostic review offers 10 key recommendations across four priority areas (see table below). These recommendations aim to enhance Iceland’s integrated wildfire risk management, improve institutional coordination, and build national resilience to this emerging threat.