Water pollution in Italy and human rights 2024

Aims of the tool

To introduce the challenges with which Italy is facing in the topics of water pollution and human rights.

Description of the tool

Water is essential for life and the economy, but Italy faces serious water pollution problems caused by industry, agriculture, and outdated sewage systems. Major pollutants include heavy metals, pesticides, fertilizers, nitrates, phosphates, and plastic waste.

Several areas are strongly affected. Garda Lake has agricultural pollution, the Venice Lagoon suffers from industrial contamination, and the Po River has high levels of nitrates and metals, causing eutrophication. These issues harm public health, reduce biodiversity, and damage tourism.

Italy recognizes access to clean water as a human right, but pollution and regional differences still limit safe water availability in some communities. To improve the situation, Italy is introducing stricter regulations and new solutions such as advanced wastewater treatment, biofilters, rainwater reuse, and smart systems that monitor water quality in real time.