Air quality in the region is a growing concern. In addition to being located in a valley,  large-scale farming and growing industrial production are large contributors to poor air quality. At times the air in this region has 4 times the amount of particulates than what is considered safe (WHO).

The bulk of Italy's industrial capacity is located in the Po Valley, consisting of large cities separated by vast stretches of agricultural land. Municipalities are scattered throughout the landscape; however, there are no clear connections between them. 

Due to increasing development, industry, and large commercial agriculture operations, ecological patches are rare. Existing patches are small, fragile, and threatened by encroaching development, drought, and the effects of climate change.

 The impending construction of a highway stretching from Bergamo to Treviglio threatens the presence of the fontanili, a nature preserve, and local heritage sights. It will restrict access between small towns, and disrupt the ecological and agricultural systems of this region.  

While the highway development is an added challenge, the team is working to integrate it in a sustainable way.