Systematizing experts' risk perception on rural fires resulting from traditional burnings in Portugal: A Mental Model approach

• Type: Chapter or Part of a Book
• Date: 2022

Authors

Souza, MEB (Author) Other; Pacheco, AP (Author) Other; Jorge Teixeira (Author) FEUP

Book

Title: Advances in Forest Fire Research 2022

Pages: 1520-1525

ISBN: 9789892622989

Electronic ISBN: 9789892622972

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00X-J13

DOI: 10.14195/978-989-26-2298-9_232

Abstract (EN): <jats:p>Fire is a traditional method used for the elimination of residual materials from agricultural and forestry activities, but its improper and negligent use increases the risk to cause significant social, economic, and environmental impacts. Translating the nature and magnitude of the risk, a mental model approach has been used for a deeper understanding of what can be done to reduce future socioeconomic and environmental impacts. Considering the rural fire risk context, in this study we applied the mental model approach to (1) explore the different perspectives of experts on rural fire risks, focusing on the burning problem, and (2) systematize the aggregated knowledge of experts on the subject. Semi-structured interviews that included real-time interactions with the proposed mental model on the MURAL platform were remotely conducted with twenty-eight experts with in-depth involvement and experience in fire and forest management in Portugal, including actors from industry, academics, third sector, and public entities. The experts' contributions were periodically validated by the research team and included in the reference mental model to translate the aggregated knowledge of the expert community. The data collected was transcribed, coded, and analyzed following a thematic analysis approach with NVivo software support. After nine iterations, the expert's mental model was concluded encompassing the burning motivators, alternative solutions, associated risks before and during the burning, underlying causes, natural elements and factors, and impacts. Overall, the study provides an in-depth and holistic understanding of rural fire risks, focusing on burning, which is essential for identifying incorrect beliefs and existing risk factors that are often neglected. The participatory and dynamic process of actors' knowledge systematization on burning risks through a mental model allowed the identification of divergent perspectives between expert groups, especially concerning the effectiveness of the current legislation on the use of fire, indicating the need to improve the dialogue between experts. Moreover, the study shows how risk communication campaigns do not replace technical monitoring closer to the population and recognize the importance and need of sensitization and communication actions to disseminate the use of available alternatives to overcome traditional habits of rural communities. Still, it indicates that successful alternative solutions of burning may be achieved with strong local and sectoral involvement. Finally, this research provides a baseline to help decision-makers and stakeholders identify the most relevant variables about rural fire risks to build effective risk communications strategies and mitigate social and environmental impacts in the future.</jats:p>

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific