Community Efforts

MOSE Project:
-Purpose: MOSE (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico) is designed to protect Venice from high tides and storm surges by temporarily separating the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea.

-Structure: It consists of 78 mobile barriers installed at the three inlets (Lido, Malamocco, and Chioggia) that rise from the seafloor to block incoming tides when sea levels exceed 110 cm.

-Operation: The barriers are filled with air to rise and block water, then filled with water to sink back down. The system can be activated within 30 minutes in anticipation of flooding.

-Challenges: Despite being operational since 2020, MOSE has faced high maintenance costs, environmental concerns, and criticism over delays, budget overruns, and vulnerability to long-term sea level rise.

Needs and Solutions to the Venetian community:

Protection of Homes and Everyday Infrastructure from Frequent Flooding

Problem: Many residents face repeated damage to homes, roads, and public spaces due to acqua alta (high water).
Solution:
-Expand the MOSE system’s use to include more frequent moderate tide events.
-Raise and waterproof residential zones using modular, flood-resistant materials.
Subsidize home waterproofing and foundation repairs for lower-income families.

Preservation of Cultural Identity and Historic Architecture
Problem: Efforts to modernize infrastructure may compromise Venice’s unique historical character.
Solution:
-Fund preservation projects with experts in heritage conservation to retroactively protect buildings from water damage while maintaining architectural authenticity.
-Create public exhibitions and educational programs about the balance between conservation and climate resilience to increase public support and awareness.