SIMMER project launched to strengthen cooperation on wildfire resilience in the Mediterranean

The main aim of the project is to combine scientific knowledge, public policy, and operational practice in order to improve preparedness, response, and restoration capacities in the region in terms of wildfires.

Publication Date
10/02/2026
Reading Time
2 minutes
Kick-off meeting of SIMMER project in Nicosia, Cyprus on 9th December 2025

The kick off meeting took place in Nicosia, Cyprus on 9th December 2025, marking the start of a significant transnational initiative under the Interreg NEXT MED Programme. With a total budget of €2.7 million, 89% co-financed by the European Union, SIMMER aims to advance coordinated, science-based approaches to wildfire prevention and management across the Mediterranean.

SIMMER (Strategic Integration of Operational and Legal Frameworks for Enhanced Resilience and Management of Mediterranean Wildfires) seeks to align scientific knowledge, public policy, and operational practice in order to improve preparedness, response, and restoration capacities in the region.

The project is expected to deliver:

  1. An analysis of scientific tools and innovation methods to support operational capability in the prevention, suppression, and post-fire management of Forest Fires.
  2. Practical implementation of tools that, through evaluation, are deemed important for our operational capacity, as well as for the readiness of the local population to voluntarily contribute to issues of prevention, suppression, and post-fire response.
  3. A clear answer to the question we receive from local authorities and citizens: “What can I do to prevent disaster?”
  4. The creation of educational tools that will significantly contribute to simple and effective solutions for training and awareness.

During the Kick-Off Meeting, partners reviewed the project’s work plan, governance structure, and implementation timeline, establishing a solid foundation for effective collaboration.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

  • Presentation of SIMMER’s strategic objectives and expected long-term regional impact.
  • Agreement on a harmonized six-month reporting process in line with Interreg NEXT MED requirements.
  • Coordination on financial management, certification procedures, and fund flow mechanisms.
  • Formal establishment of the Project Steering Committee with designated responsibilities.
  • Planning of initial activities, including stakeholder engagement and communication actions.

iterranean Partnership

The SIMMER consortium brings together institutions from six Mediterranean countries: Cyprus (EUC – Cerides), Greece (NOA – National Observatory of Athens), Lebanon (LRI – Lebanon Reforestation Initiative), Jordan (Wadi – Wadi for Sustainable Ecosystems Development), France (AIFM – International Association for Mediterranean Forests) and the State of Palestine (PPU – Palestine Polytechnic University).

Each partner contributes specialized expertise ranging from operational wildfire management to policy development, community engagement, training, and innovation.

Statement from Project Leadership

“SIMMER provides a timely and essential platform for strengthening resilience in the Mediterranean,” stated Professor George Boustras. “The project’s launch marks a coordinated effort to advance sustainable, evidence-based solutions to the growing challenges posed by climate change.”

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Last Update

10/02/2026