# The Future of Decarbonization in Italy: Challenges and Paths to Follow
Italy faces a crucial challenge: to significantly reduce its CO2 emissions in order to contribute to global sustainability goals. The year 2022 marked a period when our country experienced a decrease in emissions of only 1% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, leading to a total reduction of 30% from 2005. However, these minimal progress raises serious questions about the ability to reach the ambitious target of a 55% reduction by 2030.
### The Context of CO2 Emissions in Italy
The path towards decarbonization is particularly complex, as it is estimated that a reduction of nearly 4% per year will be necessary in the coming years. This stands in stark contrast to the average reduction seen over the past thirty years. In the near future, to meet the targets, it will be necessary to eliminate approximately 125 million tons of CO2 equivalent, a challenging task considering that the transport and construction sectors are among the farthest behind, with respective reduction targets of 33% and 23% by 2030.
### Key Areas for Decarbonization Intervention
To successfully face these challenges, it is crucial to identify key areas for intervention. According to recent analyses, there are eight key elements to focus on:
1. **Renewable Energy**: Investing in clean energy sources is essential. Renewable installations in Italy increased by 3 GW in 2022, with further increases expected in the first half of 2023.
2. **Network Infrastructure**: Upgrades are needed to support new technologies and ensure the stability of the electrical grid.
3. **Energy Efficiency**: Implementing energy efficiency practices in both residential buildings and businesses is crucial to reduce consumption.
4. **Sustainable Mobility**: Promoting the use of electric vehicles and public transport, despite a decline in 2022, remains a priority.
5. **Energy Communities**: Supporting the creation of local communities that produce and share renewable energy.
6. **Circular Economy**: Encouraging more efficient waste management through recycling and reuse can help reduce emissions.
7. **CO2 Capture and Carbon Offsetting**: CO2 capture technologies are gaining attention as strategies to mitigate the environmental impact of residual emissions.
8. **Integration of Environmental Policies**: A coordinated approach that unites various sectors towards common goals is essential.
### The Growth of the Decarbonization Market
Despite the difficulties, the decarbonization market in Italy saw an overall increase of 12.6% in 2022, rising from €30.5 billion to €34.4 billion. This reflects a growing awareness and willingness to invest in sustainable technologies and practices. However, it should be noted that sectors such as industry and waste management, which currently show progress, will need to intensify their efforts.
### Impact of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR)
The National Recovery and Resilience Plan, despite its good intentions and allocated resources, has faced significant limitations. The measures adopted have been judged to have a medium impact, and the timing of fund disbursements has slowed. This situation raises concerns about the ability of these policies to provide decisive support for the ecological transition.
### An Integrated Roadmap for the Future
To address future challenges, there is a clear need to develop an integrated roadmap for decarbonization. This should include clear interim goals, reliable rules for measuring progress, and substantial investment in innovative solutions.
