Italy faces significant economic risks from climate transition delays

Italy is facing substantial financial risks due to a slowdown in its climate transition. According to a progress report by the think tank ECCO, greenhouse gas emissions in Italy rose by approximately 9 million tons of CO2 equivalent in 2025 compared to 2024. To meet 2030 European targets, the country must reduce emissions by an additional 95 million tons within five years.

Failure to meet these targets could force Italy to spend between 3.8 billion and 5.7 billion euros to purchase emission rights. Sectors such as transport, buildings, agriculture, and waste are currently lagging behind. ECCO director Chiara Di Mambro warned that delays result in double costs: higher energy bills for citizens and significant burdens on public finances.

Separately, research from ConsumerLab and Future Respect highlights the broader economic impact of climate change. Between 1980 and 2025, climate change cost Europe 915 billion euros, with Italy recording the highest losses at 147 billion euros. The report notes that annual economic losses from extreme weather events have increased from 8.6 billion euros in the 1980s to 44.9 billion euros in the 2020-2024 period.