SNPA Environment Report

Italy is gradually progressing toward achieving the objectives set by the Green Deal, the 2030 Agenda, the National Strategy for Sustainable Development, and the Eighth Environmental Action Programme, according to the fourth SNPA Environment Report.

The report uses 21 key indicators to provide a detailed overview of environmental trends, ranging from decarbonization and the circular economy to energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy, agricultural sustainability, and the conservation of natural capital, which are crucial for food security and biodiversity. It identifies sectors with positive, negative, and stable trends.

Positive Trends

Among the positive trends are the increased use of renewable energy, the growth of organic farming, and the improvement in waste separation and management.

The use of renewable energy in Italy has grown from 6.3% to 20.4%, exceeding the 17% target, though it slightly decreased to 19% in 2021. Renewable energy production reached approximately 20%. Simultaneously, the demand for fossil energy has dropped by 3% annually.

As for organic farming, the goal is to convert 25% of Italy’s agricultural land to organic by 2027. As of 2022, 18.7% of the utilized agricultural area in Italy is organic.

Waste separation in Italy reached 65% in 2022, and landfill waste decreased to 17.8%. The goal is to reach 10%.

Negative Trends

In contrast, there are negative trends such as the increase in greenhouse gas emissions and land consumption, along with challenges concerning air quality and biodiversity management.

Greenhouse gas emissions in Italy increased by 8.5% after the pandemic in 2021. For the 2030 targets, emissions should be reduced by 43.7%, but current policies in place will lead to a maximum reduction of 28.5%.

Between 2006 and 2022, land consumption saw an increase of over 120,000 hectares. This trend is entirely contrary to the goal of achieving zero net land consumption set by the Eighth Environmental Action Programme.

Conclusions

The report emphasizes that, despite the progress made, further efforts are needed to improve and preserve environmental conditions.

This is highlighted by the need to address issues such as noise pollution, climate change adaptation, and the management of invasive species to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment for the future.

For more information on the SNPA Environment Report.