This chapter examines Italy’s water management policies from a multi-level governance perspective. It presents the main trends in water quality and quantity and in the development of water-related infrastructure, including regional differences. It provides insights on the evolution of policy, legal and institutional frameworks for water management, along with governance challenges in managing water resources. The chapter highlights the interconnection between governance and financing of water management and the way they can be addressed jointly through the mitigation of territorial and institutional fragmentation, better management planning, further engagement of stakeholders, improvement of the information base, and wider use of economic instruments for river basin management. Finally, this chapter presents efforts to improve Italy’s water supply and sanitation sector and to strengthen its financial sustainability.

This chapter reviews policy initiatives implemented over the last decade in Italy to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It examines the strategic and institutional frameworks and the mechanisms in place to manage interactions between different policy instruments and monitor their implementation. It assesses progress in using market-based instruments such as emission trading and energy taxes. The chapter analyses the effectiveness of measures implemented in the energy sector, including those to promote renewables and energy efficiency. This chapter also examines measures to reduce transport-related GHG emissions, including improving the emission performance of vehicles and developing effective and efficient urban transport systems. Finally, the chapter analyses steps taken to integrate adaptation to climate change into sectoral policies as well as regional and local activities.