Integrating Wildfire Risk Management and Territorial Planning: A Review of the Historical Context of Chile

Abstract

In rural-urban interface areas exposed to wildfires, it is essential that territorial planning be adapted to integrate risk reduction measures. However, few studies have examined the historical interactions between wildfire management and territorial planning, and how their institutions and instruments have adapted to increase their integrated over time. Accordingly, the aim of this research is to examine the evolution of the Chilean territorial planning system in its incorporation of wildfire risk management measures. A qualitative case study analysis strategy is used. A chronology of Chilean territorial planning and its integration of wildfires characterized in five periods is presented. Progressive efforts to improve the way in which territorial planning addresses wildfires are evidenced, however, characteristics of the historical context condition and limit its ability to do so. This research contributes to the understanding of the Chilean planning system and its relationship with wildfires, contributing to the international discussion on the factors that condition the integration of disaster risk reduction policies in various contexts.

Keywords

• planificación territorial
• reducción del riesgo de desastres
• incendios forestales
• historia urbana
• chile