Taranto has gone from an industrial city to the home of dolphins, a metamorphosis that has captured global attention. The prestigious National Geographic recently published a reportage that highlights the ecological rebirth of this Apulian city, once known for its industrial pollution.
Under the leadership of mayor Rinaldo Melucci, Taranto has undertaken an ambitious path of environmental sustainability. The fulcrum of this transformation is the establishment of the Marine Protected Area (MPA), an integral part of the “Taranto Ecosystem” programme. Thanks to this provision, dolphins have returned to populate the waters of the Ionian Sea, becoming the symbol of positive and tangible change.
The National Geographic report praises the city’s commitment to preserving marine biodiversity. The MPA represents a concrete action for the protection of marine life and aligns with the objectives of the United Nations Agenda 2030, in particular goal 14 “Life below water”. Mayor Melucci declared: “DCreating a marine protected area is the clearest sign of how city policy is oriented towards all forms of environmental protection, enhancing natural resources, especially those offered by the sea, as a driver of economic and social development.”
The key phrase “Taranto from an industrial city to the home of dolphins” is not only an administrative reality, but also a reason for pride for the people of Taranto. Residents and tourists see Taranto as an eco-sustainable destination of great charm. The return of the dolphins not only represents a victory for the environment, but also a powerful tourist attraction that is redesigning the image of the city on an international level.
National Geographic also underlined the importance of cooperation between local administration, scientific community and citizens, united in the common goal of making Taranto a model of sustainable development. This example of synergy represents hope for other industrial cities seeking ecological rebirth.
Taranto is rewriting its history, demonstrating how determination and innovation can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for growth and sustainability. This profound and significant change is an example of how the Apulian city is becoming a reference model in the Mediterranean.
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