Short-Sighted Needs of Local Government in Italy Threaten to Turn Ecotourism to Dust

Siena, Italy (PRWEB) July 29, 2007 -- Environmentalists from England and America have ignited a grassroots campaign to halt the efforts of a local Italian government to strip the landscape of its natural beauty for short-term economic gain. The local township of Sovicille, a small rural community in Tuscany, is seeking approval to expand the activities of an existing marble quarry, Paggacino. This region, known for its tranquility and the famous Montagnola Senese (Sienese Hills) has enticed tourists from around the globe for centuries.

The request to expand the Paggacino quarry has sparked little concern among local politicians but has many proponents of ecotourism throughout the world in an uproar. The unique landscape of the Montagnola Sense and its protected status have attracted many eco-tourists to the region, spurring the growth of environmentally friendly agriturismo farms in the area. Expanding the activity on the quarry would destroy acres of forests and replace the natural tranquility of the region with the sounds of heavy machinery and mining equipment.

"The quarry, already devastating to the surrounding landscape and environment, is located in an area protected by regional, national and European community laws," said Helen Ampt, Vice President of the Committee for the Protection Of The Sienese Montagnola. "The evisceration of the valley could alter the microclimate of the area, and cause economic damage to neighboring activities based on nature and silence."

Regulations indicate that mining operations in this area are allowed to retrieve only precious materials that have historically come from the location and can be found nowhere else. The regulations further stipulate that at least 20 percent of production must be of sizable blocks, as opposed to broken rock which is used for fill and gravel. In Pagaccino, the quarry contains friable common gray-white marble that is extracted in pieces not blocks for crushed stone.

Erin Cinelli, Executive Director of Spannocchia, a non-profit educational center located on an historic organic farm situated in the heart of the Montagnola Senese, is concerned the expansion of the quarry will threaten the long term viability of eco-tourism in the area.

"We have seen how visitors from afar often recognize the unique value of this landscape, which otherwise is perhaps discounted or taken for granted," said Cinelli. "Perhaps if the local authorities knew how much it is appreciated by others from all over the world, they would understand its value lies in preserving it, not turning it into gravel."

"Guests at Spannocchia spend lots of money locally in the Comune of Sovicille, at restaurants and stores," said Cinelli. "It is imperative the officials of Sovicille consider the full economic impact of this proposal."

The Spannocchia farm hosts hundreds of guests each year interested in preserving the cultural landscape of Tuscany. Members of their foundation have been sending emails and letters to the town officials of Sovicille to express their concern with the quarry's request. Though the issue may seem like a local political matter, to many who have visited the region, it is a subject of concern that will not be ignored despite the miles of separation.

"When I arrived at Spannocchia, I learned all about how the activities on the farm preserve the landscape and culture for future generations. We recycled, collected compost, and picked fresh produce for dinner," said Justine Carlisle, an American visitor to the farm. "I felt attached to the area and believed it was my duty to protect it. Why should that change now?"

About Spannocchia

Nestled in the Montagnola Senese region of Tuscany, Spannocchia is an organic agricultural estate that houses an educational center, guest accommodations, and a multicultural community. Over 1000 people visit Spannocchia each year to experience the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside while learning about sustainable farming and preservation of rural culture. For more information about Spannocchia and its Foundation, please visit www.spannocchia.org or www.spannocchia.com.

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