The Venice Carnival 2026 has chosen to change its face in the name of environmental protection. No more confetti and plastic streamers: this year the mayor Luigi Brugnaro signed an ordinance which prohibits the use of non-biodegradable materials throughout the municipality during carnival celebrations. The provision concerns not only official parades, but also parties, demonstrations and private events, with the aim of reducing the impact on the urban and lagoon ecosystem.
The basis of the decision is the fact that confetti and plastic streamers easily end up in streets, fields and above all in canals and canals, contributing to pollution and clogging of drains, particularly in case of rain. A problem that involves additional costs for cleaning and maintenance, but also damage to the image (as well as to the environment) for a fragile city and global symbol of beauty. The ordinance invites citizens and visitors to pay attention to product labels, favoring natural and easily disposable materials.
The “Venice plastic free” project
The ban is part of the broader “plastic free Venice” process, the project with which the municipal administration aims to progressively reduce the use of disposable plastic. An approach that also acts on apparently small but highly symbolic gestures, such as throwing confetti. According to Plastic Free Onlus, which expressed appreciation for the measure, plastic dispersed during crowded events represents one of the main sources of urban and lagoon micropollution.
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A cultural as well as environmental signal
The choice to intervene on Carnival also has a cultural value. It’s about transforming a consolidated tradition into a more conscious practice, without distorting its festive spirit. The hope of environmentalist associations is that this step paves the way for other measures, such as overcoming the release of balloons in flight, which is still widespread and dangerous for fauna and ecosystems.
Safety and rules during events
Alongside the environmental measures, the Municipality has also provided for ordinances dedicated to urban safety, in particular on the occasion of the Carnival water procession. In certain time slots, the transport and sale of glass drinks, closed cans and capped plastic bottles will be prohibited, as well as the use of stinging sprays. The expected penalties range from 25 to 500 euros. The Venetian Carnival thus confirms itself not only as a spectacular party, but also as a laboratory of good practices, where fun and respect for the environment can coexist.
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