19.09.2026 Climate Walk "WE ARE THE GREEN DEAL" in Venice

Saltmarshes are unique habitats typical of transitional environments such as the Venetian Lagoon. These low-lying islands, covered with herbaceous vegetation and periodically submerged by high tides, are landscapes of exceptional ecological value. They host a rich biodiversity, including specialised plant species capable of adapting to fluctuations in salinity, temperature, and tidal conditions, as well as numerous rare bird species. Saltmarshes also perform essential ecosystem functions: they act as natural filters, improving water quality and trapping sediments and nutrients. However, these environments are increasingly under threat due to erosion, wave action, reduced sediment supply, climate change, and pollution. Maintaining plant biodiversity within saltmarshes is particularly important, as it ensures the presence of vegetation capable of stabilising these fragile ecosystems under a wide range of environmental conditions. Why is biodiversity so important for saltmarshes and for ecosystems in general? And what does this have to do with human wellbeing? This Climate Walk, led by Fabiana Corami, Beatrice Rosso, and Elisa Scalabrin from CNR-ISP Venezia, in collaboration with We are here Venice, will provide an opportunity to explore these questions together and discuss the challenges and opportunities involved in protecting one of the Venetian Lagoon’s most valuable natural environments.