Catalonia faces forest‑staff shortage as fire risk and disease surveillance concerns rise

Regional authorities in Catalonia warn that a shortage of skilled forest workers is hampering efforts to prevent wildfires and manage forested land, which covers about 65% of the region. Firefighters and forest scientists note that low wages, physically demanding work, and reduced immigration have left a structural gap in personnel, limiting the ability to clear vegetation, mechanize tasks, and increase the value of timber and biomass.

At the same time, public‑health experts highlight the growing risk of infectious diseases moving from natural environments into cities. They call for an integrated surveillance system that monitors human, animal and environmental health to detect emerging pathogens early, requiring interdisciplinary collaboration among doctors, veterinarians, biologists and authorities.

Both issues underscore the need for coordinated policy action, greater investment in forest management, and stronger prevention measures to protect public health and reduce fire hazards in Catalonia.