How science could lift Italy’s sinking cities back up — including Venice and Ravenna

Italy faces a crisis of land subsidence, particularly in coastal cities like Ravenna and Venice. Scientists have found that this issue can be reversed by recharging underground aquifers, which have been depleted due to excessive water extraction. Techniques include converting extraction wells into recharge wells and using infiltration basins to store excess river water. Japan's experience shows that subsidence can be reversed, as seen in Osaka, where measures to stop groundwater extraction have led to land rebound. However, Italy's unique geology and hydrocarbon extraction complicate the situation. Climate change may also impact natural recharge processes, necessitating proactive measures to protect sinking cities.