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Wildfires are an increasing and cross-border risk for the European Union, driven not only by climate change and environmental factors, but also by human-induced causes, whether accidental or intentional, including criminal activities. These evolving risk drivers place growing pressure on civil protection, security and law-enforcement actors, and highlight the need for enhanced preparedness, prevention, early detection and situational awareness. Addressing these challenges requires the effective uptake of research and innovation solutions that support a comprehensive and integrated approach to wildfire preparedness. In this context, the Community of European Research and Innovation for Security (CERIS), jointly organised by DG HOME and DG ECHO, is hosting this event to foster dialogue between policy makers, end-users, researchers and industry.

The event will bring together European Commission services, EU-funded projects and practitioners to showcase innovative solutions with demonstrated potential to strengthen wildfire preparedness and prevention, including those addressing deliberate and accidental ignition risks. It will also introduce EU innovation procurement instruments, with a particular focus on Pre-Commercial Procurement (PCP) under Horizon Europe, as a tool to respond to common capability gaps. Through interactive workshop sessions, participants will contribute to identifying priority needs and preparing the community for future PCP actions, supporting a coordinated, innovation-driven and security-aware approach to wildfire preparedness in Europe.