Supreme court rejects appeals against shutdown of ex-ILVA furnaces

The Supreme Court of Cassation upheld the closure order for the hot area of the former ILVA steelworks in Taranto, rejecting appeals from the plant's administrators and owner. The closure, mandated by a Milan court due to health concerns, must occur by the end of the month unless asbestos is removed and emissions are controlled. This ruling raises concerns about the plant's future and potential job losses. Various groups, including Italy's steel federation and foreign investors, have shown interest in acquiring the facility. The plant has faced economic challenges and health issues linked to cancer rates in the region. Legal actions are ongoing against former executives for emissions-related concerns.