France advances fire‑break vegetation and insurance reforms to curb wildfire risk

Research in southern France shows that low‑lying succulent groundcovers such as Sedum and Delosperma can slow wildfire spread. Their high water content makes them act as living fire‑breaks, and planting them in autumn is recommended to protect homes during the dry summer months. This approach complements traditional measures like clearing vegetation around properties.

At the same time, the French state, through the Caisse centrale de réassurance, serves as the reinsurer of last resort for the CatNat natural‑disaster insurance scheme. A mandatory surcharge on home and auto policies funds a pool that compensates victims of recognized catastrophes. Officials are debating whether the 1982‑era framework can sustain the rising frequency and cost of climate‑related fires, prompting calls for adjustments to the surcharge and the scheme’s financing.