The Po Delta, located in north-eastern Italy, is one of the largest and most important wetlands in the Mediterranean, covering approximately 500 km². This mosaic of lagoons, marshes, beaches and agricultural land, recognized by UNESCO as a biodiversity reserve, is now under pressure due to new proposals for offshore drilling for gas extraction in the Adriatic Sea.
In past years, gas extraction in the Po Delta has caused serious problems subsidence, or the lowering of the ground. In the 1950s and 1960s, more than 1,400 wells extracted up to 300 million cubic meters of gas per year. This has led to a significant subsidence of the land, so much so that some areas of the delta have dropped up to four meters below sea level.
The consequences of these activities are clearly seen today: the land continues to sink, forcing a constant struggle to keep the water at bay with drainage pumps and hydraulic barriers.
Climate change and the Po Delta
In addition to the effects of drilling, the Delta del Po must also face the challenges imposed by the climate changes. The region suffers from periods of drought followed by torrential rains that the arid soil cannot absorb, and rising sea levels that contaminate fresh river water with salt. These changes are destroying the rich biodiversity of the delta, which is home to more than 350 bird species and more than 1,000 plant species.
Despite the already existing risks, the government has authorized the resumption of drilling in the upper Adriatic due to reduced supplies of gas due to the war in Ukraine. Experts warn that these new drillings, even if offshore, could still cause further damage to the delta’s fragile ecosystem.
According to the president of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaiathe energy benefits would be irrelevant compared to environmental damage. Local mayors and environmental groups also express strong concern, pointing out that the drilling could cause a definitive collapse of the Po Delta.
An uncertain future
The situation in Po Delta requires serious reflection on how to balance energy needs with environmental protection. Local communities ask certainties and guarantees to protect the future of this precious territory and to ensure the liveability of their communities.
What do you think? Do we believe it is right to continue drilling despite the environmental risks?
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