Europe's escalating energy crisis, fueled by geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine, has claimed an unexpected casualty: Italy's beloved public swimming pools. Roberto Carboni, director of Faenza's Municipal Swimming Pool, told myglobalnews.net they closed weeks ahead of schedule due to electricity bills doubling since 2021. \"We're seeing pools disappear from communities that depend on them for sports, therapy, and social connection,\" Carboni said.
At least 12 pools have halted operations indefinitely in Lombardy alone – Italy's economic powerhouse region. Facilities across Europe face similar pressures, with gas constituting 80% of pool energy costs in Italy. Meanwhile, swimmers like competitive athlete Giulia Marconi warn of consequences: \"Without access to training facilities, Olympic dreams could literally sink.\"
This disruption highlights how energy inflation reshapes daily life beyond household bills, threatening cultural institutions and athletic development. Analysts note recreation centers now account for 9% of Italy's spike in energy-related business closures this quarter.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
