Venice in Transition: A City Navigating Climate and Culture

Episode Summary:

In this compelling episode of Harvesting Wisdom, Dr. Roselle steps in for host Mike McMahon and takes us on a journey to Venice, Italy—a city facing the dual pressures of climate change and mass tourism. Through an enlightening conversation with the Director of the Venice Sustainability Foundation, we explore how Venice is being reimagined as a living laboratory for sustainability.

Listeners will hear how the MOSE flood barrier system is protecting the city from rising seas, and how community engagement, education, and youth involvement are essential to its long-term resilience. From managing overtourism to building a hydrogen economy, this episode is a case study in how a historic city can adapt, innovate, and lead. Whether you're an educator, policymaker, student, or sustainability advocate, Venice's story offers valuable lessons on bridging culture, climate, and community action.

Episode Timeliness:

• 00:00 Introduction & Dr. Roselle fills in for Mike McMahon
• 00:31 Venice as a living lab; purpose of Urban Farming Education
• 01:27 Guest’s background and mission at the Venice Sustainability Foundation
• 04:21 Reflections on sustainability in Athens vs. Venice
• 10:29 MOSE flood barrier system—history, technology & implications
• 19:33 Social impact of tourism & need for community-wide sustainability mindset
• 26:33 Youth and community education for long-term transformation
• 30:56 Global collaboration and Venice’s role in worldwide sustainability
• 36:07 Vision for eco-tourism and global learning exchange
• 38:33 Upcoming hydrogen economy conference in Venice
• 43:09 “Waterproof Venice” exhibition and economic sustainability
• 45:56 Financial sustainability as core to ecological resilience
• 49:00 Venice as a model and teacher for other communities

Why Listen?

Venice is more than a postcard-perfect city—it’s a climate front line and a model for urban resilience. This episode invites listeners to rethink how we manage shared resources, confront climate realities, and empower the next generation of stewards. With engaging storytelling and practical insight, it’s a masterclass in transforming challenges into global leadership.

Call to Action:

Explore more about Venice Sustainability Foundation and Urban Farming Education at weareufe.org.
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Donate or Get Involved to help close the gap between information and action.
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