Adriatic Sea in the face of climate change.
We begin our coverage of the Youth Facing Global Challenges’’ project, in which we discover the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. Our first stop is the Adriatic coast and the topic “Climate on the Adriatic – Nature and Responsibility’’. In this blog, we will analyze the impact of climate change on northern Italy, the role of nature parks, and the principles of sustainable tourism. We will also consider how we – young people – can actually protect local nature
ADRIATIC - BEAUTY THREATENED BY THE CLIMATE
Is the Adriatic endangered?
The Adriatic Sea is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. Unfortunately, climate change is increasingly affecting this region. The rise in temperature and sea level is causing serious problems for the environment and people. What once seemed like a distant problem is now becoming a real threat to the environment and people living along the coast.
In recent years in Italy we can see frequent heat waves and rising water levels, which causes a lot of problems. An example is Venice, which is increasingly experiencing flooding. Additionally, there are more violent weather phenomena, such as storms or heavy rainfall.
Not only places and monuments are at risk,but also people, animals and plants. Many species of fish, birds and plants are losing their natural habitat. If this process continues, it could lead to a reduction in biodiversity in the Adriatic region.
WHAT ARE THE THREATS TO THE COAST?
The Adriatic coast is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change and human activities. This is a very delicate area where even small changes can lead to serious consequences.
Sea level rise
One of the greatest threats is sea level rise. Water is gradually flooding coastal areas, leading to more frequent flooding. Cities like Venice are already struggling with this problem. In the future, the situation may worsen further, and some areas may be permanently flooded.
Coastal erosion
The waves and currents of the sea cause the gradual destruction of the coastline. Beaches are shrinking and some are disappearing completely. Erosion is further accelerated by human activities, such as the construction of hotels and ports.
Extreme weather events
Climate change is causing more frequent storms, strong winds and heavy rainfall. Such phenomena can destroy coastal infrastructure, cause flooding and threaten residents and tourists.
Salinity of soil and water
Destruction of ecosystems
Coasts and lagoons are home to many species of animals and plants. Pollution, temperature changes and human interference lead to the destruction of these habitats. As a result, many species may become extinct or move to other places.
Environmental pollution
Human activities, especially tourism, are also a big problem. Plastic waste, sewage and other pollutants end up in the sea, harming both animals and the entire ecosystem.
When we think of Venice, we see gondolas and historic squares. However, beneath the surface of the emerald water and on the shores of the Venetian Lagoon, a fascinating fight for survival is taking place. It’s a system of interconnected vessels where marine biology meets futuristic engineering.
Natural Filters: Jellyfish, Clams, and “Chains of Life”
Although tourists avoid them, jellyfish and mussels are the silent heroes of the Adriatic. In recent years, scientists have increasingly talked about using “chains” of biological filters to clean the environment:
• Mussels: These are natural vacuum cleaners. One individual can filter liters of water in an hour, removing impurities and excess nutrients.
• Jellyfish: Research suggests that jellyfish mucus may trap microplastics.
• Filter Cages: Innovative designs include the creation of special cages and installations that not only purify water but also indirectly “filter the air” over canals, reducing gas emissions from rotting organic matter and improving the microclimate.
The Big Mix: Where Fresh Water Meets Salt
The Venetian Lagoon is an extraordinary place – the point of contact between two worlds. It is here that rivers flowing down from the Alps mix with the saline waters of the Adriatic.
• Water mixing: This process is crucial for the ecosystem. Fresh water carries sediment, and salt seawater provides oxygen.
• Ocean currents: The Adriatic is characterized by specific circulation (currents move counterclockwise). They are the ones who “flush” the Lagoon, changing the water and preventing it from stagnating.
Moses Dam: Shield Against the Element
Venice is one of the rainiest and wettest places in Italy, and the Acqua Alta (high water) phenomenon regularly threatens the city. To save them, the MOSE (Moses) system was erected.
• Barrier System: These are 78 movable yellow gates located at the bottoms of the three inlets to the Lagoon.
• Operation: When sea levels rise dangerously, compressed air is pumped into the gates, displacing the water, lifting the dams and cutting off the Lagoon from the open sea. It’s a true engineering marvel designed to protect the city from flooding.
Cranes and Steel: The Lagoon Landscape
The lagoon is also a home for birds. In the marshy areas you can see cranes that stop here on their hikes. Their presence is proof that despite the proximity of large-scale industry and the port of Marghera, the ecosystem is still alive. The sight of wading cranes against the backdrop of MOSE steel structures and port cranes is a symbol of modern Venice – a place where nature must learn to live side by side with technology.
HOW YOUNG PEOPLE CAN PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT IN THEIR SURROUNDINGS.
Daily activities that really matter
Young people can start with simple things: carrying your own bottle instead of buying plastic choosing public transport or a bicycle instead of a car buying second-hand clothes (so-called second-hand) reducing food waste
For example, in cities like Trieste and Udine, more and more young people are using bicycles and public transport to reduce air pollution.
Protection of nature in practice
In the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, young people can: take part in cleaning beaches on the Adriatic Sea help protect animals in nature parks participate in tree planting Clean-up activities are organized around Laguna di Grado, where young people remove plastic and waste from water areas.
Environmental education and awareness
Young people can also: organize school environmental campaigns run social media profiles on ecological topics take part in workshops and educational projects Many schools in the region are organizing climate change and recycling projects that teach how to take care of the environment in practice.
Creative ideas of youth
Some activities are truly innovative: creating clothes from recycled materials organizing „zero waste” school events exchanging books and clothes instead of buying new things establishing community gardens In towns such as Pordenone, young people are involved in local environmental initiatives and urban projects.
Why does all this matter?
Every decision — however small— affects the environment. If many young people start working together, the effects can be enormous. The Friuli-Venezia Giulia region shows that proximity to nature inspires its conservation.
Summary
While the problem of climate change seems enormous, each of us has a real impact on the environment — even through small, everyday decisions. Above all, it’s worth reducing the use of plastic. Instead of disposable bottles or bags, we can choose reusable products that significantly reduce the amount of waste ending up in the seas and oceans. The Adriatic, like other bodies of water, is increasingly suffering from pollution, so any such change matters. Saving water and energy is equally important. Simple actions like shorter showers, turning off the lights, or using energy-efficient appliances help reduce our impact on the climate. Responsible behavior during the holidays should also be considered. When we are at the seaside, we should keep the beaches clean, not leave trash and respect nature. Choosing eco-friendly forms of transport and supporting local initiatives also contributes to environmental protection. Every step, even the smallest, matters. It is the daily choices of millions of people that can contribute to real change and protection of the Adriatic for future generations.
The Adriatic is a living organism. From tiny clams filtering water to the massive steel gates of the Moses Dam – every piece of this puzzle is essential for Venice to survive for centuries to come.