We call upon the Tuscan Regional Government to legislate prudently and conscientiously regarding "Areas Suitable for Large-Scale Renewable Energy Plants".
The eyes of the world are now on Tuscany as it is called to legislate to protect Italy's landscape and cultural heritage, epitomised by the globally recognised "postcard of Italy".

Currently, in Tuscany and other regions lacking specific regulations on suitable or unsuitable areas for renewable energy plants, energy companies are submitting an exorbitant number of authorisation requests. This is due to a deregulation that occurred in October 2024. This phenomenon of assaulting Italian territories is primarily motivated by speculators' desire to secure the most advantageous lands before any restrictive laws come into effect.

The new regional law on Suitable Areas for industrial renewable plants must be applied exclusively in appropriate zones that are already industrialised or subject to degradation. Otherwise, Tuscany's most valuable territories will be exposed to uncontrolled industrial colonisation. Thousands of hectares of plains, hills, coasts, and mountains - which have so far guaranteed carbon sequestration, biocapacity, hydrogeological balance, tourist attractiveness, and biodiversity - essential elements for the region's health and economic well-being - risk being compromised by the impact of numerous industrial plants. The logical placement of such plants should be in urban and industrial areas, where energy demand is concentrated and 50% of transmission losses can be avoided.

This petition, promoted by over a hundred committees and associations of TESS (Solidary and Sustainable Ecological Transition Without Speculation) and supported by Tuscan mayors of ANCI (National Association of Italian Municipalities) and UPI (Union of Italian Provinces), appeals to the Regional Council of Tuscany to legislate transparently and effectively. It is crucial that the law, however well-conceived in its principles, also applies to authorisation requests already in progress. Otherwise, its impact would be nullified, considering that the numerous current requests are concentrated in areas where land costs are lower for investors but have a high value for public health and the environment.

Furthermore, we urgently request the prevention of reduction and downgrading of Tuscany's 139 Special Conservation Zones (SCZs). These areas of inestimable ecological value are threatened by legislative gaps that make them vulnerable to potentially harmful modifications. The presence of protected species in SCZs not only justifies their preservation but also offers the opportunity to propose strategic expansions and significant improvements in their management.

It is imperative to act now, with determination and awareness. Coordinated and incisive action will ensure that each SCZ receives the attention and protection it deserves. This timely intervention can play a crucial role in safeguarding our invaluable natural heritage. It is essential to ensure that regional decisions are based on up-to-date, complete, and scientifically valid data, thus guaranteeing a sustainable future for our protected areas and for generations to come.

The future of Tuscany cannot depend on legislative gaps and political negligence. If Tuscany yields, the entire country is at risk: join the appeal and sign the petition now to preserve our natural and cultural heritage!