Livorno moves to utilize dual aqueduct for urban irrigation

In Livorno, a motion has been filed in the city council to activate and expand the use of a dual aqueduct system. This infrastructure, designed to transport non-potable water, was developed over decades to support industrial activities at the port and has since been extended to urban areas.

Proponents, including Livorno Civica, argue that the network is largely complete but underutilized. They suggest the system should be leveraged to irrigate urban greenery, such as parks and trees, to combat rising temperatures and the heat island effect. Using non-potable water for irrigation is proposed as a sustainable alternative to using drinking water during periods of drought and heatwaves.

The motion calls for a technical assessment of the infrastructure, an audit of the water utility Asa, and the integration of this system into the city’s urban green plan approved in July 2023.