Core Insights - Willis, a WTW business, has announced a collaboration with the University of East Anglia (UEA) to enhance understanding of global wildfire risk, addressing the increasing severity and unpredictability of wildfires that now rival losses from other natural disasters [1][2] Group 1: Wildfire Risk and Impact - Wildfires have become larger and more destructive due to shifting climate conditions, expanding fire-prone areas, and urban growth, leading to significant insured losses, such as US$1.5 billion during Australia's Black Summer bushfires in 2019-20 and US$40 billion from the recent Palisades and Eaton fires in Los Angeles [2] - The partnership aims to help the insurance sector understand the evolving nature of wildfire risk, including changes in frequency, intensity, and geography, as well as the increasing threat of urban fires [3] Group 2: Research and Insights - Dr. Matthew Jones co-leads the State of Wildfires Report, which evaluates extreme wildfire events and future risks under climate change, while identifying opportunities for risk minimization through climate action and land management [4] - The collaboration seeks to provide robust insights that assist insurers in managing wildfire risks effectively, emphasizing the need for better prediction systems and fire prevention strategies [5] Group 3: Organizational Background - WTW provides data-driven solutions in risk management, serving clients in 140 countries, and aims to enhance organizational resilience and performance [6] - The University of East Anglia is recognized for its research quality and impact on sustainable development, being a leading member of Norwich Research Park, which focuses on environmental and health research [7]