DThe mystery surrounding a green-stained section of Venice’s Grand Canal has been solved: the discoloration was caused by fluorescein, a non-toxic substance used in tests on sewer networks, local officials said.
The Regional Authority for Environmental Protection in Veneto reported that fluorescein was detected during the analysis of the samples. No toxic elements were detected in the samples. Where the fluorescein came from is not disclosed.
Residents of the Rialto Bridge, popular with tourists, pointed to a “veil of bright green liquid” in the water on Sunday. According to local newspaper “La Nueva Venezia”, police are investigating whether climate activists are behind the discolouration.
The Viceroy of Venice convened an emergency meeting. More recently, protesters have attracted attention with color campaigns in Italy, including in front of the famous Trevi Fountain in Rome or the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.
Gondola Tour in Venice – On Green Water
They are: dpa/Luigi Costantini
The Grand Canal already turned green five decades ago. In 1968, during the Biennale art exhibition, Argentinian artist García Uripuru poured bright green dye into water to raise awareness of environmental protection.
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