Italy Introduces AI Tool to Combat Landslide Risks Amid Climate Concerns

Italy's Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) has introduced an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant to help residents assess and mitigate landslide risks, addressing the growing threat posed by climate change.

The AI assistant enhances the IdroGEO public platform, providing interactive maps and real-time data on geological instability. This tool aims to empower individuals to understand and prepare for potential landslides.

Italy is among the European countries most susceptible to landslides. ISPRA reports that approximately 2.2% of the population, or about 1.3 million people, reside in areas classified as high or very high risk for landslides. The proportion of land exposed to serious landslide hazards increased from 8.7% in 2021 to 9.5% in the past year. This trend is partly due to more frequent and severe storms linked to climate change, which have expanded the geographical extent of vulnerability beyond historically affected regions.

Recent events underscore the urgency of addressing landslide risks. In November 2022, heavy rainfall triggered a landslide on the island of Ischia, resulting in 12 fatalities and five injuries. In May 2023, the Emilia-Romagna region experienced two exceptional rainfall events, each delivering approximately 200–250 mm of rain within 48 hours. These events led to extensive flooding and triggered thousands of landslides, causing damages estimated to surpass €9 billion.

The AI assistant is designed to enhance user access to the IdroGEO public platform, offering interactive maps and current data to help individuals better understand and prepare for geological instability. By providing accessible and interactive information, the AI assistant can raise awareness among residents about the risks associated with landslides, leading to more informed decision-making. Individuals equipped with up-to-date information can take proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as reinforcing structures or planning evacuation routes. The tool may also foster a sense of community responsibility, encouraging collective efforts in disaster preparedness and response.

In addition to technological initiatives, Italy has implemented policy measures to address natural disaster risks. From April 2025, Italian businesses are required to secure natural disaster insurance. This policy aims to alleviate state financial burdens on disaster compensation and promote prevention and infrastructure improvements. However, concerns about cost and complexity persist among businesses.

Italy's vulnerability to landslides is well-documented, with 93.9% of municipalities at risk from landslides, floods, and coastal erosion. Over 1.3 million inhabitants are at risk of landslides, and 6.8 million are at risk of flooding. The increasing frequency and severity of such events underscore the need for innovative solutions like the AI assistant.

The AI assistant represents a proactive approach to disaster risk management, leveraging technology to empower residents with critical information. Its effectiveness will depend on user engagement, continuous updates, and integration with broader disaster preparedness strategies.