Pope meets families who lost children to toxic waste in Italy’s ‘Land of Fires’
Summary
Pope Leo XIV visited an area near Naples, Italy, known as the Land of Fires, where illegal toxic waste dumping by the mafia has caused many deaths and illnesses. He met families who lost children to cancer linked to pollution and urged those responsible to change their harmful actions.Key Facts
- The Land of Fires is an area near Naples affected by toxic waste dumping controlled by the Camorra mafia.
- This pollution has caused a rise in cancer and other diseases among nearly 3 million residents across 90 municipalities.
- The European Court of Human Rights ruled Italy had long known about the pollution but failed to act properly.
- Pope Leo XIV visited on the 11th anniversary of Pope Francis’ environmental letter, showing his commitment to this cause.
- Local bishop Antonio Di Donna said about 150 young people died in Acerra alone over 30 years due to pollution.
- Families brought photos and memories of their children who died from pollution-related illnesses during the pope’s visit.
- The pope called for action to stop the illegal dumping and pollution and expressed support for the affected families.
- Previous plans for a papal visit to this area were canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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