The planned bobsleigh track in Cortina d'Ampezzo for the 2026 Winter Olympics is facing criticism for its symbolic and ecological impact, particularly the deforestation of a centuries-old larch forest. Giorgio Vacchiano, a forestry expert, highlights the project's questionable utility and the negative message it sends about environmental sustainability. The forest, significant for its historical and cultural value, is being cut down without proper forest management protocols. The article underscores the importance of preserving natural ecosystems and questions the long-term benefits of such developments.

Pharmaceutical multinational Bayer is accused of appropriating the manifesto of organic and regenerative agriculture, originally promoted by civil society organizations, without crediting the creators or referencing the original 'Charter'. This occurred when Bayer Crop Science published its 'program' for regenerative agriculture, mirroring the points from the 'Charter of Principles and Values of Organic and Regenerative Agriculture' created by the NGO Deafal in 2018. Deafal, which has been committed to biodiversity and sustainable agriculture since 2000, views Bayer's actions as a failure to recognize the true value of regenerative agriculture principles. The campaign 'Defend Regenerative' has been launched to counter this act of greenwashing. Additionally, the upcoming vote on December 11, 2023, regarding the European Commission's intention to deregulate genetically modified plants produced through new genomic techniques (NGTs), poses further risks to consumer health and the environment, with the proposal being supported by the GMO industry and certain MEPs.

The landscape of San Vito di Cadore in Belluno has been significantly altered due to construction projects aimed at improving road access to Cortina d'Ampezzo for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Anas project, which includes a 2.3 km bypass, has led to the removal of ecologically valuable land, sparking opposition from local committees and environmental advocates like Roberta De Zanna. Critics argue that the region's high hydrogeological risk and the environmental impact of such projects necessitate alternative solutions, such as enhanced public transportation. The article highlights the social and ethical tensions arising from these developments, particularly the opposition between the Comune di Cortina d'Ampezzo and local environmental groups.

A protest in Cortina d’Ampezzo against the construction of a new bobsleigh track for the 2026 Winter Olympics drew over 800 participants, including local citizens, political figures, and environmentalists. The project, initially estimated to cost less than 50 million euros, is now projected to exceed 124 million euros, raising concerns about financial and environmental impacts. Key figures like Roberta De Zanna and Cristina Guarda criticized the lack of public involvement and transparency in the decision-making process. The protest highlighted broader issues of public spending priorities and sustainable development in the region.

Resqship, a German NGO, is dedicated to rescuing shipwrecked individuals in the Mediterranean. Operating since 2019, the organization uses the Nadir sailboat to provide safety and first aid to migrants, often collaborating with the Italian Coast Guard. Despite accusations of circumventing Italian laws, Resqship's methods predate these regulations. The NGO's efforts are supported by volunteers, primarily from Germany and Italy, who undergo rigorous selection and training. The article highlights the challenging conditions faced by migrants, particularly those from West Africa, and criticizes the negative portrayal of migration in Italian media.

The documentary 'Lupo uno' explores the coexistence between wolves and human communities in Veneto, Italy. Directed by naturalist photographers Ivan Mazzon and Bruno Boz, the film documents a research project by the University of Sassari and the Veneto Region, focusing on innovative conflict mitigation techniques like GPS collars. The documentary, awarded at the Trento Film Festival 2023, aims to inform and offer preventive measures for better human-wolf coexistence. It highlights the importance of accurate information and proactive strategies to address the challenges posed by the return of wolves to the region.

The article discusses the 'Car is over' initiative aimed at regulating traffic in the Dolomites to protect alpine ecosystems. The proposal includes banning motor vehicles for two hours daily during summer 2023, enhancing public transport, and increasing noise emission controls. Prominent figures like Luigi Casanova and Michil Costa support the initiative, emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent further environmental degradation. The initiative is backed by various organizations and aims to promote sustainable tourism and reduce harmful emissions.

The research titled 'Cortina 2020-2040, storia di una comunità al tramonto?' by Raffaello and Stefano Lorenzi examines the socio-demographic and economic decline of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The study highlights the significant aging population, high real estate costs, and the diminishing local entrepreneurial spirit. The authors argue that the upcoming Winter Olympics in 2026 will not bring long-term benefits to the local community, instead exacerbating existing issues such as inadequate services and environmental degradation. The Regole d’Ampezzo organization plays a crucial role in preserving local values and territory, but its influence is waning.

Artisanal fishing in Senegal is under severe threat from both climate change and industrial fishing practices. Local fishermen like El Hadji Diop report dwindling fish stocks and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. Activists such as Abdou Karim Sall and organizations like Greenpeace Africa highlight the detrimental impact of industrial fishing vessels, which deplete fish stocks and often operate illegally. The situation is exacerbated by international fishing agreements that favor foreign fleets over local fishermen, leading to increased food insecurity and economic challenges for coastal communities.

Armstrong Knitting Mills, based in Tirupur, India, focuses on producing sustainable and fair trade cotton. Founded in 1969, the company is committed to reducing environmental impact by using organic cotton and renewable energy sources. The company is Fairtrade certified, ensuring fair prices and premiums for farmers, which are invested in social and educational projects. Armstrong collaborates with international brands like Neutral, Sense Organics, and AltraQualità. The company also emphasizes worker safety, health, and female empowerment. Despite challenges, Armstrong continues to innovate and promote ethical production practices.