The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has condemned Italy for violating the right to private life of 151 citizens of the municipalities of Salerno, Pellezzano and Baronissi, exposed to pollution from the Pisano foundries, located less than 6 km from their homes.
The ruling, issued following an appeal filed in 2018, criticizes Italian authorities for failing to take adequate measures to protect residents' health and quality of life, despite the proven environmental damage caused by the plant.
The investigations, supported by studies conducted since 2017, have found mercury levels in residents up to five times higher than average, confirming a significant impact on health and an increase in vulnerability to various diseases.
The ECHR highlighted that, between 2008 and 2016, the smelter generated serious levels of pollution without citizens being adequately informed about the risks. Even after 2016, while acknowledging the authorities' efforts to introduce containment measures, the Court highlighted that the permission to continue production did not take into account the prolonged exposure of the local population to harmful substances.
The case has its roots in 2006, when the area around the foundry was inexplicably converted from industrial to residential without the planned relocation of the plant. The Italian government contested the appeal, denying a direct link between pollution and damage to health, but the ECHR reiterated the authorities' responsibility to ensure the protection of citizens' rights. The ruling is a warning for more responsible management of industrial activities near inhabited areas.
Article published on May 6, 2025 - 19:59 pm
The ECHR ruling is very important but I think the authorities should do more for the citizens. It is strange that the area was converted without thinking about pollution, they should have informed the people better.