Venice’s Grand Canal turned a startling neon green Saturday, the result of a climate protest action by activists demanding greater action on environmental policy. Authorities are investigating the incident and have reportedly banned Greta Thunberg from attending upcoming events in the city following her support of the presentation.
The act, carried out by the group “last Generation,” aimed to highlight the urgency of the climate crisis and draw attention to governmental inaction.While the activists claim to have used a non-toxic, biodegradable dye, officials fear potential environmental consequences for the delicate ecosystem of the canal. Luca Zaia, Governor of the Veneto region, which includes Venice, condemned the act as a “disrespectful gesture toward our city, its history, and its fragility.”
The protest occurred in multiple Italian cities, including Genoa, Padua, Turin, Bologna, and Taranto. Some tourists witnessing the event expressed support for the activists, characterizing it as a “legitimate action” to underscore the failures of global climate policy. despite assurances from the group regarding the dye’s composition, concerns remain about the impact on the canal’s environment. The incident underscores the escalating tactics employed by climate activists and the growing frustration with the pace of environmental change.
