Belo Horizonte implements integrated fire management policy

Belo Horizonte has enacted a new Municipal Integrated Fire Management Policy to prevent and combat forest fires in green areas. The legislation, published in the Official Gazette on Tuesday, aims to reduce the occurrence of wildfires and mitigate their environmental impacts.

The policy introduces technical planning tools, such as prescribed burns, which are controlled fires used to reduce the intensity of future wildfires, control invasive species, and preserve biodiversity. It also seeks to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and address phytosanitary issues.

Under the new law, the city may establish forest brigades composed of municipal employees, hired professionals, or volunteers. The administration is authorized to form agreements with the Minas Gerais Military Fire Department to train these teams. Additionally, the policy emphasizes environmental education, scientific research into climate change impacts, and the recovery of vegetation in areas previously affected by fire.