Hunting in Tuscany, Giani and the Meloni government: 'Two guarantors of biodiversity' and the region approves the game plan with the support of Avs

The Tuscany regional government has approved its Faunistic-Hunting Plan, a measure aimed at regulating hunting activities and aligning them with environmental protection standards. The plan was passed despite opposition from the Alliance for the Green Left (Avs), which criticized it as favoring hunters over conservation efforts. The approval came after months of debate and negotiation, with the final version incorporating some amendments proposed by the far-right party Fratelli d'Italia. The plan includes provisions that place farmers and hunters on equal footing with environmental groups in terms of wildlife protection measures. The decision was made by the regional administration led by President Eugenio Giani, who described the plan as one of balance, seeking harmony among three key local stakeholders: farmers, hunters, and environmentalists. All share a deep connection and respect for the environment, according to Giani. He emphasized that the number of hunters in Tuscany had dropped significantly, from more than 200,000 to around 60,000, and argued that their presence is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, controlling wildlife emergencies, and ensuring ecological equilibrium. Without hunters, he warned, there would be severe consequences. The plan allows for the hunting of up to 10,000 collared pheasants, a move welcomed by agricultural organizations such as Coldiretti. It extends the hunting season and permits wandering hunts even during September and January. Additionally, the training of hunting dogs has been moved forward to late August, a period marked by high stress levels for wild animals. Despite these changes, the use of lead bullets in ammunition remains unrestricted. Avs expressed disappointment with the final version of the plan, stating that it still leans too heavily toward the interests of the hunting community. They called it a missed opportunity to introduce stronger protections for wildlife and biodiversity in the region. This stance aligns with their national position against the proposed national hunting bill (ddl Malan), which they have consistently opposed. Avs reiterated this position in discussions with local environmental groups, emphasizing their commitment to data-driven approaches and genuine collaboration. The Five Star Movement (M5S) sought to address certain cultural biases within the plan, particularly references to "capannists," individuals who maintain hunting lodges and contribute to preserving biodiversity. They also pushed for the inclusion of clauses defining wildlife as a state asset that should not be exploited freely. These amendments were partially accepted, though critics argue they did not sufficiently shift the plan's overall focus away from supporting hunting activities. Environmental experts have mixed reactions to the new regulations. Guido Scoccianti of WWF Tuscana acknowledged some improvements introduced during the legislative process but stressed that the plan still falls short of adequately protecting wildlife. He pointed out that while the document recognizes the need for balance, it does not fully reflect the scientific consensus on sustainable hunting practices. Scoccianti highlighted concerns about the continued use of lead bullets and the extension of hunting seasons, both of which could negatively impact wildlife populations. The approval of the Faunistic-Hunting Plan marks a significant step in shaping future hunting policies in Tuscany. With the hunting calendar already set for the upcoming season, the implementation of the plan will likely face scrutiny from environmental groups and scientists. The regional government has committed to monitoring the effects of the new regulations and making adjustments based on ongoing assessments. As the debate over hunting and conservation continues, the effectiveness of the plan in achieving its stated goals of balancing ecological preservation with traditional hunting practices will become increasingly clear.