California is taking proactive steps to combat the increasing threat of wildfires by investing in home hardening, which is a vital preparedness measure. A new report from Earth Economics, commissioned by the NRDC, highlights that such investments not only enhance wildfire resilience but also offer significant economic returns, estimated at around $1.70 for every dollar spent.
The report, titled “California’s Home Hardening Economy: Investing in a Resilient Future,” emphasizes that while California’s landscapes are adapted to wildfire, many homes are vulnerable. Home hardening techniques, such as installing fine mesh vents to block embers, removing combustible materials, and using Class-A roofing materials, can significantly improve a home’s ability to withstand wildfires. The establishment of a robust home hardening sector could generate up to $116.4 billion in economic activity, create nearly 500,000 jobs, and yield $2.7 billion in tax revenue.
Wildfires have had a profound impact on California, with 620,000 to 770,000 single-family homes identified as being at risk. The report makes a compelling case for enhancing community resilience against wildfires through home hardening, which has previously received little attention regarding its economic implications.
Investing in home hardening could lead to direct expenditures of between $16 billion and $20 billion if all at-risk homes were moderately fortified. This investment is particularly relevant when compared to the recovery costs anticipated from recent wildfires, which could exceed $76 billion to $131 billion.
Maya Kocian, executive director at Earth Economics, noted that home hardening provides not only essential protection for homes but also creates substantial economic benefits, potentially supporting 74,000 to 92,500 jobs and boosting economic growth by $10.3 billion to $13 billion. Furthermore, it could add between $21 billion and $26.5 billion in economic activity.
The report underlines the necessity for decision-makers to understand the scope of investment required for home hardening and its economic advantages. Rita Vaughan Frost, a forest advocate at NRDC, pointed out that while the benefits of home hardening for communities have been recognized, only 1 percent of California’s budget currently allocates funds for these measures. Supporting a new home hardening sector presents a significant opportunity for California to enhance safety and drive economic growth.
