The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have sparked important conversations about how we can better prepare our communities for natural disasters. As a landscape designer with experience in Japan, I believe there are valuable lessons we can learn from their approach to fire safety through landscape design.
In Japan, earthquakes are often followed by wildfires. Due to the prevalence of wooden structures, fire protection is a major focus in their architectural and city planning codes. In addition, municipalities like Osaka have educated people on the importance of fire-resistant landscaping. They often recommend planting trees with high water content, such as the iconic ginkgo trees that line many Japanese streets. These trees act as natural firebreaks, helping to slow the spread of flames and protect homes.

The devastating wildfires in California are a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety in our communities. Homeowners are likely to re-evaluate their landscaping choices, prioritizing fire-resistant plants. Similarly, city planners in the U.S. should carefully consider plant selection in public parks, prioritizing fire-resistant species to create safer spaces.