The protection of the environment, biodiversity and ecosystems is included in the Italian Constitution. The Chamber of the Chamber has definitively approved the proposed constitutional law which modifies two articles of the Charter, 9 and 41, in this sense.

The text, at the second reading in Montecitorio, passed with 468 votes in favor, one against and six abstentions. The Senate approved it with a two-thirds majority on 3 November. Consequently, it enters into force immediately and is not subject to referendum.

The abstentions were all from Fdi. In an explanation of vote, Emanuele Prisco announced that his party had left freedom of conscience to its deputies.

The final vote was greeted by a long applause from the Montecitorio Assembly.

The Minister for Ecological Transition Roberto Cingolani speaks of an "epochal day". "It is right that the protection of the environment, biodiversity and ecosystems become a founding value of our Republic, it is an essential step for a country like Italy that is facing its ecological transition. For the actions we do today and for the consequences that will have in the future on the next generations, this conquest is fundamental and allows us to have well-defined rules to protect our planet ", declared the minister in a statement.

WHAT CHANGES - Two articles of the Charter are being modified, 9 and 41. Here is how the novelties change, in bold type.

Article 9 - The Republic promotes the development of culture and scientific and technical research. It protects the landscape and the historical and artistic heritage of the nation. It protects the environment, biodiversity and ecosystems, also in the interest of future generations. State law regulates the methods and forms of animal protection.

Article 41 - Private economic initiative is free. It cannot take place in conflict with social utility or in a way that could damage safety, freedom, human dignity, health or the environment .

The law determines the appropriate programs and controls so that public and private economic activity can be directed and coordinated for social purposes.