What is Italy's 'Land of Fires'?

'The Land of Fires' is a region in southern Italy, primarily between Naples and Caserta, devastated by decades of illegal toxic waste dumping and burning.

What health problems are linked to the 'Land of Fires' pollution?

The pollution is linked to record high rates of lung and liver cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, bladder cancer, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease.

What actions has Italy taken following the European Court of Human Rights ruling?

Italy has responded with new decrees to combat eco-crimes, appointed a special commissioner for cleanup, and committed to a comprehensive remediation strategy.

Home / Environment / 'The State Sold Itself': Decades of Toxic Waste Haunt Italy's South

'The State Sold Itself': Decades of Toxic Waste Haunt Italy's South

29 Jan

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Summary

Europe condemned Italy for failing to protect citizens in the 'Land of Fires'.
Decades of illegal toxic waste dumping have poisoned vast areas of southern Italy.
Residents face severe health consequences, including high cancer rates and birth defects.

'The State Sold Itself': Decades of Toxic Waste Haunt Italy's South

One year ago, the European Court of Human Rights condemned Italy for failing to protect citizens in Campania's 'Land of Fires'. This region has been devastated by decades of illegal toxic waste dumping and burning, orchestrated by the Camorra criminal network and complicit companies. Residents, like Angelo Venturato, tragically lost loved ones to cancer, a grim reality in an area with exceptionally high rates of the disease.

Investigative journalist Marilena Natale highlights how the state's complicity enabled this environmental crisis, earning her police protection. For over 40 years, toxic and radioactive waste seeped into the soil and groundwater, leading to widespread health issues, including unprecedented rates of cancer, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. The Italian state officially acknowledged this health impact only in 2021, a recognition too late for many families.