Climate change is becoming an increasingly tangible reality for many regions of the world, and Friuli Venezia Giulia is no exception. Average temperatures are rising significantly, bringing with them a series of consequences that will affect daily life, the environment and the economy of the region.
Climate change analysis
The Center for Studies on Climate Change (CSCC), promoted by Greenway Group Srl and Ecogest Spa, recently published a report that highlights the worrying climate trends in the region. The center’s analyzes show a average increase in temperatures by approximately 0.3°C every 10 years from 1961 to 2016, with a clear acceleration in recent decades.
CSCC forecasts indicate that, by the end of the century, the average temperature could increase by approximately 5.3°C in winter it’s almost 6°C in summer. This means that, by 2050, we expect an average increase of approximately 2.5°C. This warming will lead to milder winters and much warmer summers, directly impacting daily life and local ecosystems.
Increase in precipitation and hydrogeological risk
Another significant consequence of climate change will be increased precipitation, particularly during the winter months, which could grow to 20-30% by the end of the century. This increase in precipitation will result in a greater hydrogeological risk in a region already subject to landslides and floods. The melting of snow and permafrosttogether with increased rainfall, could further destabilize mountainous areas and cause torrential floods and debris flows.
Summer and heat waves: a threat to health and the environment
Summers in Friuli-Venezia Giulia will become more and more hot and dry. Currently, the region experiences fewer than five days of heat waves per season. However, within the period 2071-2100, up to is expected 40 days of heat waves per year in the plains, with temperatures that will exceed the seasonal average by at least 5°C. These conditions will represent a serious threat for human health, agriculture, livestock and vulnerable ecosystems.
Impact on infrastructure and the need for maintenance
The transport infrastructure they are among the sectors most affected by climate change. The region’s roads and highways will need to be prepared to deal with extreme weather conditions. Valerio Molinari, president of the CSCC and key shareholder of Ecogest Spa, underlines the importance of planning and remodulating infrastructure maintenance. Advanced technologies such as online cameras, weather stations and road load sensors will be key to monitoring and managing traffic and preventing congestion.
Innovative solutions for a resilient future
To address these challenges, innovative solutions must be adopted. The planting of native trees and the use of drones for continuous monitoring of the state of vegetation can help improve the conservation of infrastructure. Furthermore, adapting maintenance planning will be crucial to ensure the resilience of road networks.
The Challenge of Climate Change
Climate change represents a complex and multifaceted challenge for Friuli-Venezia Giulia. As Valerio Molinari stated, it is essential to move from diagnosis to treatment, using scientific and technical innovation and relying on experience to develop effective solutions. Only through concerted and proactive action will it be possible to mitigate negative impacts and exploit the opportunities that will arise in a rapidly changing world.
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