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Protecting What We Value Most

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By Juan Anzieta

Manager of Forests and Sustainability at Arauco

We are accustomed to hearing the word prevention. It’s used by doctors, teachers, authorities, economists, and even companies when we talk about, for example, the importance of following safety protocols to prevent accidents.

Today, as we stand on the brink of a new wildfire season, prevention makes more sense than ever—because, whether we like it or not, it is our best defense and, in many cases, the only option to mitigate the impact of devastating wildfires that affect our forests, biodiversity, and people.

Prevention is neither an isolated nor an optional task; it is a process we must prioritize collectively. In this regard, the community prevention network has become a key pillar, enabling neighbors to get directly involved in protecting their surroundings and becoming the first guardians of the land.

The community not only knows the territory but can also quickly communicate any signs of danger and, once on the ground, helps us act in a more coordinated manner.

However, for prevention to truly work, two things are needed. First, educating and raising awareness among people through campaigns, workshops, and practical guides to prevent fires accidentally caused by human actions. Second, strengthening infrastructure with more surveillance points, well-maintained firebreaks, rapid response teams, and trained community brigades. This not only protects our natural resources but also ensures the safety of our communities.

This is very important, but we must acknowledge that many fires are intentionally set. In response, it is crucial that authorities and judicial bodies join this chain to pursue and penalize those responsible.

Every action counts. By combining our efforts in this prevention network and working closely with authorities to ensure justice against intentional fires, we can build a safer and more resilient environment.

Prevention is everyone’s commitment, and at Arauco, we take our part seriously and with determination. We invite everyone to join this cause: together, we can make a difference and protect what we value most.