Italy has had its fair share of eco monsters, especially during the boom years of the 1950′s and 1960′s.

Occasionally news breaks of another, such as the 15 million euro concrete flood barrier built along the shores of Como not so long ago. Fortunately, now being pulled down following public outcry.

And as we write 10 million liters of diesel is flowing along the River Lambro towards the Po following a spill at Lombarda Petroli.

Or a willful act of intimidation according to some sources.

But these seem like minor incidents compared to the gist of a fascinating article entitled ‘Dubai: The Nemesis of Sustainability‘.

Tourism and high finance are meant to step in when the hydrocarbons run out in a few years, but at what price?

Having lived in Dubai in the early 1990′s and conducted lifestlye research across the Emirates, the constant theme was always admiration for the modernity, fast cars, skyscrapers, Disneyland etc.

They got what they wanted.

Parallels with Italy? Not really but protection of the environment and historical patrimony must surely be the way forward for sustainable tourism and job creation in this country.