Scientists appeal to Draghi to save Venice from sea rise

Members of the Istituto Veneto di Scienze, Lettere ed Arti have sent an urgent letter to Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, calling for action to protect Venice from rising sea levels. The appeal comes ahead of the UN climate conference COP26 in Glasgow (31 October–12 November 2021), where Venice is not on the agenda despite the city's existential threat. Scientists warn that Mediterranean sea levels will rise at the same rate as oceans, with projections of 28–55 cm (optimistic) to 63–101 cm (pessimistic) by 2100. They argue that the MoSE barrier system is insufficient. The letter describes Venice's slow decay: buildings already damaged by higher water, the Basilica di San Marco suffering, and the risk of collapse if water levels are not managed. Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk contributed a reflection on Venice's global cultural significance. The signatories urge Draghi to create a new authority with international expertise, insulated from local politics, to develop a sustainable plan for the lagoon ecosystem.