Volunteers in the Battle to Protect Our Forests

The environmental challenges our planet faces are becoming increasingly urgent and require collective effort aimed at practical solutions. Climate change is leading to an increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, such as forest fires, endangering the balance of ecosystems and the services they provide to the environment and societies. As a result, not only nature but also people’s daily lives are directly affected, making immediate and organized action essential. Tackling forest fires requires proper preparation and substantial support for those on the front lines. Volunteer forest firefighters in Greece play a crucial role in protecting forests and communities from fires. Although often called ‘heroes,’ this label isn’t enough. Volunteers need tangible support, such as adequate equipment and structured training to remain safe and effective in their work. Initiatives like the one implemented by the MKA Desmos (Non-Profit Organization Desmos) in collaboration with WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) and HIGGS (Higher Incubator Giving Growth & Sustainability), supported by the I.S. Latsis Public Benefit Foundation, National Bank, and A.I. Martinos Foundation within the Initiative ’21, are very important. These initiatives focus on specialized training and providing high-standard equipment needed by volunteers for protection and efficiency. The numbers speak for themselves. In the first phase of the program (2022-2024), 1,936 volunteers and 50 firefighting teams were strengthened from Rhodes to Evros, while 574 volunteers from 118 teams received specialized training. Currently, the second cycle (2024-2026) is underway, with approximately 250 pedestrian volunteers from areas like Attica, Chios, Komotini, Kavala, Evros, Crete, Euboea, and Argolida actively participating in hands-on workshops combining theory and practice in the field. Meanwhile, more than 400 volunteers, citizens, and representatives from six regions have attended prevention workshops, and 30 volunteer teams will soon receive specialized equipment tailored to their specific needs. The National Bank, actively supporting the initiative, promotes active social participation in environmental protection. With a vision for a sustainable future, admiration, and gratitude, these individuals go beyond themselves to protect our natural environment. Strengthening and training the people on the front lines is critical for effectively protecting our forests.