The Milan court has issued an ultimatum to Ilva Spa and Acciaierie d'Italia, mandating them to start dismantling the hot area of the Taranto plant by August 26. This decision follows a request from local residents, and the court emphasized that the continuation of production poses severe health risks for the population. The judges determined that the timeline is short, but necessary, given the impact on public health as assessed by the magistrates.

This ruling marks a significant turn in the ongoing conflict between the community of Taranto and the major steel manufacturing company. The tribunal, led by Judge Angelo Mambriani, is taking into account an EU Court of Justice ruling from 2024 which could further bolster the residents' case against the plant. Their move to disapply the environmental permit previously granted highlights growing concerns about the environmental and health standards being upheld by industrial operations in the area.

If Ilva does not initiate the conversion process within the stipulated six months, it will legally be required to halt operations in the hot area. This decision not only underscores the urgency and seriousness of the public health situation in Taranto but also represents a pivotal moment in the broader environmental discourse within Italy, reflecting growing tensions between industrial activity and community health needs.