Europeans are witnessing increasingly intense wildfires. As climate change exacerbates drought conditions and decreases summertime rainfall, the threat of wildfires is expected to increase over fourfold by the end of this century. Is adaptation to these blazes inevitable? During one particular week in autumn 2024, ravaging fires burnt down over 100,000 hectares of land in Portugal — A region approximately the size of Hong Kong was affected. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen from orbit. This fire ranked among the biggest wildfire events in Europe for that year, resulting in at least seven fatalities. Scientists suggest that such fires may become more frequent. Thomas Elmqvist, the Environment Director at the European Academies Science Advisory Council (EASAC), stated, “A significant rise in prolonged droughts across many regions of Europe is heightening the likelihood of catastrophic wildfires.” He also warned that certain areas might encounter intense events...