Venice: a city that not only captivates with its scenic beauty and cultural heritage, but is also a place of great ecological importance
One of the key challenges facing Venice is the construction and infrastructure of the city, which for centuries has relied on wooden stilts driven into the swampy ground. To combat erosion and rising water levels, innovative solutions have been introduced. One of them is MOSE (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico), a system of mobile flood barriers. It works by pneumatically raising and lowering steel baffles in response to high water levels in the Venetian Lagoon. MOSE aims to protect Venice from flooding and protects the city’s unique monuments, such as St. Mark’s Basilica.
One of the most important steps Venice has taken is to ban large cruise ships from entering the historic center of the city. The ban was introduced in 2019 after years of protests by environmental groups and local residents, who argued that the ships were destroying the city’s delicate ecosystem and contributing to pollution.
Venice is also undertaking numerous environmental initiatives. One example is the fight against air pollution. Strict emissions restrictions have been put in place, and the Old Town area is closed to automobile traffic. In an effort to reduce CO2 emissions and other pollutants, residents and tourists can use public transportation such as vaporetto (public water boats), which are powered by electricity.
Venice is also committed to sustainable transportation practices. There are many bike lanes in the city, and bicycles have become a popular mode of transportation. There is also a bicycle rental program for residents and tourists, encouraging the use of this eco-friendly alternative.
Venice is a city that not only draws on its past beauty, but also faces the challenges of climate change and environmental protection. Innovative solutions such as the MOSE system, emission reductions, the development of bicycle infrastructure and the promotion of recycling demonstrate the city’s commitment to sustainability.
When we travel to Venice, we can not only marvel at its charms, but also be inspired by its environmental example. Let Venice be a reminder that every city has the potential to implement green solutions and contribute to building a better future for our planet.