Police were called in Tuesday after about 40 people protested a major energy project in southern Italy which they say poses serious environmental risks.
The protesters gathered outside the Taranto headquarters of Confindustria, Italy's largest industrial employers organization, to say they fear an increase in pollution and heightened environmental risks from the 'Tempa Rossa' project.
A joint project of Total, Shell and Mitsui, Tempa Rossa involves the development of an oil field located in the region of Basilicata, with oil to be transported via the southern port city of Taranto.
Italian energy giant Eni is also involved as a logistical partner.
The project would also involve construction of new port systems for the transfer of oil onto ships moored there.
Protestors say Taranto has enough pollution problems because of the ILVA steel plant, which prosecutors have tried to shut down due to its history of causing environmental damage to the area.
The City of Taranto has also raised concerns about the possible risks of pollution from the Tempa Rossa project.
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