Italy is facing an alarming surge in extreme weather events, with over 110 incidents recorded from January to mid-May 2025 — a 31% increase compared to the same period last year.
The data, published by Legambiente’s Città Clima Observatory, reveals a growing climate emergency. Heavy rain-induced floods topped the list with 34 events, followed by wind damage (23) and river floods (14). The spike highlights what experts are calling a failure of national and regional policies on climate mitigation and adaptation.
In response, more than 300 young climate activists formed a human chain on the beach of the Paestum Dune Oasis in southern Italy. Their message to the Meloni government and regional authorities was clear: “Stop fossils, start renewables.”
The protest was part of Legambiente’s 2025 Youth Climate Meeting, a platform calling for urgent political commitment to clean energy and long-term climate solutions.
“To meet the EU’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050, and its 2030 milestones, we must accelerate renewable energy development, remove bureaucratic barriers, and boost public and private investment,” said Legambiente president Stefano Ciafani.
Ciafani stressed that energy transition means more than reducing emissions: “It’s about creating green jobs, lowering energy bills, gaining energy independence, and reducing Italy’s contribution to global conflicts driven by fossil fuels.”
He warned, however, that achieving these goals requires bold decisions, including the widespread installation of renewable energy plants, currently facing strong local opposition.
The organisation is urging national and regional governments, businesses, unions, and civil society to embrace inclusive energy planning, support energy communities, and invest in technological innovation across all sectors.
With extreme weather events increasing and international obligations looming, activists say Italy can no longer afford delay.
