The commission claims that as a result of their negligence, the national authorities are jeopardising the conservation of protected species and biodiversity.
In a letter of formal notification, the EC accuses Rome of failing to apply the measures set out in the 1992 Habitats Directive.
The directive aims to protect over a thousand species, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish invertebrates, plants and 230 characteristic habitat types.
In particular, it alleges that Italy has failed to conduct research and take adequate action to ensure that bycatch does not have a significant negative impact on the conservation of protected species.
Brussels also accuses the national authorities of failing to intervene adequately to prevent various aquatic and bird species from being disturbed within the sites identified under the Natura 2000 programme for their protection and conservation.
Italy has two months to respond to the complaints, after which the EC could decide to move to the second stage of the infringement procedure by sending a reasoned opinion.
ANSA
