About the event

Over the past several decades, climate change induced concurrent hot and dry conditions have amplified conditions that promote wildfires (IPCC, 2021). A surge in the incidence of large and uncontrolled wildfires was thus seen on all vegetated continents. The recurring incidence of wildfire disasters and their broad impacts are hampering progress towards the objectives of the Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Global Forest Goals (GFGs) and other development goals.

This UNFFS/DESA SDG Pavilion event aims to present the key findings of the UN DESA’s background study and policy brief on wildfire, and the multiplier impacts of climate change and forest fires on each other. The side event also provides an opportunity for the speakers and participants to share their experiences and suggestions to address the growing concerns of wildfires, and the means to further advance collaboration among countries and regions.

The event will be open to all participants from governments, UN system, international organizations, civil society, private sector, academia and general public.

For more information see: Event Concept Note

Speeches and Presentations:

• Mr. Liu Zhenmin, Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, DESA
• Ms. Jaelith Hall-Rivera, Deputy Chief, State and Private Forestry, US Forest Service
• Mr. Riaan van den Dool, Principal Engineer, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, South Africa
• Ms. Sheam Satkuru, Director of Operations, International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO)