The strike was organised by the Fridays For Future (FFF) movement inspired by Greta Thunberg.
Under the slogan ‘Let’s Take Back the Future,’ there were marches in most Italian cities, including big demonstrations in Rome, Turin and Florence.
The calls for climate action and appeals to ditch fossil fuels also came, among other things, with demands for a ceasefire in Gaza and for greater equality between the Global North and Global South.
There was also criticism of the energy giant Eni and the Italian government’s Mattei Plan, which seeks to create a new partnership with African countries to address the root causes of irregular migration and turn Italy into a sort of hub for energy supplies.
“A decisive push towards moving away from fossil fuels is needed,” said Leonardo Sordino of FFF Italia.
“If we really want to remain within 1.5°C (over pre-industrial levels), we must follow the indications that science has been giving us for some time.
“The latest IPCC report is clear: the transition must be accelerated, accompanied with measures to reduce inequalities, such as debt cancellation.”
Meanwhile, climate activists dyed Venice’s Grand Canal green and red in an action believed to have been carried out by Extinction Rebellion.
Police arrested two French tourists after the dye was poured into the iconic waterway from a vaporetto.
Police said the stunt may also be linked to the Venice art biennale currently running in the lagoon city.
ANSA
