Local opposition to biomethane plants in Italy

Opposition to biomethane plant projects is growing across various Italian communities, driven by concerns over infrastructure, health, and environmental impacts.

In Mezzani, local officials from the Lega group, including Gianni Soncini and Laura Cavandoli, have raised objections to a proposed 60,000 square meter site. They cite risks to local infrastructure, residential proximity, and existing productive activities, specifically noting hydraulic issues and traffic congestion on narrow roads like via Burla.

In Bojano, the ‘Area Matese’ movement has requested institutional mediation from the Prefect of Campobasso, alleging that a proposed plant in Codacchio ignores regional zoning. The group highlights that the Bojano plain is a critical area due to PM2.5 particulate levels exceeding safety thresholds, which they claim necessitates mandatory continuous air quality monitoring that the current project bypasses.

In Casanova del Morbaso, the ‘No Biometano’ committee is pursuing legal action and urging the local municipality to appeal to the Council of State after a regional administrative court rejected a challenge against a conversion plant. Residents cite potential increases in heavy traffic, odors, and decreased property values, asserting their constitutional right to health.

Further resistance has emerged in Colle Sannita, where the association ‘Tutti per l’Ambiente, l’Ambiente per Tutti’ is protesting a proposed 500 Smc private biomethane plant in the Decorata district. Due to scrutiny regarding urban planning and administrative sustainability, the municipality has mandated an Environmental Incidence Assessment (Vinca), with a deadline for observations set for November 8.