De Rosa: «No to the green revolution without alternatives»

Starting next October 2025, the ban on the circulation of Euro 5 diesel vehicles will come into force in several Italian regions. A measure that has already raised strong criticism, especially for its social and economic impact. We have collected the point of view of Cavaliere Domenico De Rosa , CEO of the Smet Group , entrepreneur and authoritative voice in the logistics sector, who launches a heartfelt appeal: « You cannot impose a green revolution without providing concrete alternatives ».

Mr. De Rosa, what is your position on the Euro 5 diesel ban planned for October 2025?

" It is yet another example of an abstract regulatory drift, which arises from theoretically acceptable assumptions - such as the reduction of emissions - but which completely ignores the Italian socioeconomic context. This measure is imposed from above, in line with European directives, but without considering the real conditions of families, artisans, and traders. "

Shouldn't the measure promote ecological transition?

" In theory yes, but in practice it translates into a punitive environmentalism, which does not reward those who adapt, but punishes those who cannot. The most affected will not be the owners of luxury electric or hybrid cars, but single-income families, self-employed workers and small businesses, often in urban areas where there are no valid mobility alternatives. "

So is the problem the lack of concrete alternatives?

« Exactly. In Italy there is not yet an efficient and widespread public transport system, nor an electricity market accessible to the majority. Euro 5 diesels, often still perfectly functional, will be excluded out of ideological obedience, not for technical reasons. It is a shortcut that does not create innovation, but inequality and impoverishment. »

What do you think of the European push towards an accelerated ecological transition?

" There is a short-sighted uniformity in European thinking. Poland is treated like Denmark, Italy like the Netherlands, without taking into account the profound differences in terms of income, infrastructure and industrial competitiveness. Italy should have the courage to propose a different, realistic path, which combines environmental sustainability and social stability. "

What are the main risks in your opinion?

" The first is the devastating economic impact on entire sectors linked to urban mobility and logistics. The second, even more dangerous, is the effect on the social level: environmentalism is starting to be perceived as an elitist imposition. This disconnect between institutions and citizens is fertile ground for distrust and tensions. "

What should the government do to correct the course?

" Stop considering every European directive as an inevitable fate. We need an autonomous national policy, which starts from the concrete needs of the country and builds practicable solutions. No more bans: let's invest in infrastructure, public transport, industrial innovation. Only in this way can Italy return to being a protagonist in the European debate, rather than remaining a passive victim. "

The reflection of Cavaliere Domenico De Rosa launches a clear warning: the ecological transition is necessary, but it must be built with intelligence, fairness and respect for the real conditions of Italian society. Ignoring this balance means fueling social fractures and risking a general rejection of policies that should instead unite. The future of Italy also passes through here: from the ability to combine sustainability with social justice.