Labour and Environmental Crisis: Investigating Convergence in Fossil-Dependent Regions, the Case of Ravenna

The Italian city of Ravenna, with its deep ties to the fossil fuel industry, offers a crucial lens through which to explore the intertwined crises of labour and environment. A central element in this debate is natural gas, framed by some as a "bridge fuel" necessary for a gradual transition to sustainability, while others argue that its continued use perpetuates the extractive logic at the heart of the environmental crisis. A significant player in this dynamic is Eni, the energy company that has been a cornerstone of Ravenna’s economy for over 70 years. Today, Eni is grappling with the demands of the energy transition, but its most prominent proposal is the construction of a Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS) facility. This project aims to mitigate carbon emissions by storing CO2 underground, yet it is facing opposition from environmental activists who argue that it perpetuates dependence on fossil fuels rather than advancing a decisive shift toward renewable energy.

This paper examines whether the evolving concept of Just Transition—which now reflects the convergence of labour and climate justice movements—can be translated into practical terms in a region where fossil fuels have long shaped both the economy and employment. The study investigates the perspectives of workers and unions, who have mobilized to protect jobs in the oil and gas sector, as well as environmental activists advocating for a radical departure from fossil fuels. Using a qualitative methodology, this research draws on over 30 semi-structured interviews and two focus groups with local union representatives and environmental activists, shedding light on the tensions and potential areas of convergence between these opposing groups. By focusing on Ravenna, this paper aims to contribute to the broader debate on how labour and environmental concerns can intersect in the context of energy transitions.