The new environmental conservation project in Valnerina, Umbria is part of the multi-year "Bellezza Italia" protocol signed by Legambiente and Unipol Group.
Valnerina is a breathtaking valley, home to the Nera River and its tributaries. Rich in nature, culture and deeply rooted traditions that still thrive today, it is characterised by the presence of a rich network of natural areas dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity.
The project aims to raise awareness and promote the value of aquatic ecosystems and Mediterranean trout among local communities and river users such as fishermen, hikers and tourists.
The project focuses on monitoring benthic fauna and the breeding nests of Mediterranean trout, and on analysing the chemical and physical parameters of the waters: a true citizen science initiative that involves filling out forms and collecting images and videos.
The monitoring protocol defined with the scientific support of the Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology of the University of Perugia enables the collection of valuable information to evaluate the quality of the habitat and the effects of anthropic pressures, the density of the populations that inhabit the Nera River and, consequently, to assess the state of health of the aquatic ecosystems in Valnerina and its rivers with a view to improving their conservation.
Bellezza Italia has a concrete goal: to enhance Italy’s most characteristic places and experiences. Places which, despite making Italy unique, are increasingly threatened by the effects of the climate crisis and the loss of biodiversity.
Thanks to the partnership between Legambiente and Unipol Group, many projects have already been carried out for the recovery and restoration of areas in the country penalised by degradation.
In recent years, Legambiente and Unipol Group have considered another important objective when planning the interventions to be implemented through Bellezza Italia: to address the climate emergency and safeguard biodiversity in the attempt to make a difference, restoring the beauty and safety of compromised locations, helping them to become resilient and capable of facing and resisting extreme events.
Areas which, thanks to these interventions, have been returned to citizens, promoting all possible synergies between civil society, businesses and institutions.
