Pope Leo XIV visited Acerra, Italy, an area affected by pollution and illegal landfills, criticizing the indifference towards the environment.

Pope Leo XIV traveled to Acerra, in the 'Triangle of Death', a region in southern Italy affected by severe pollution and illegal landfills controlled by the mafia. This symbolic visit coincides with the 11th anniversary of Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si’, which emphasizes the importance of environmental protection. The Pope criticized the 'deadly mix of obscure interests' that has led to soil and water contamination, causing an alarming increase in cancer cases in the area.

In front of approximately 15,000 believers, he emphasized the necessity of responsibility towards the surrounding environment and thanked those who have denounced ecological abuses. Since his election, Pope Leo XIV has focused on environmental issues, continuing the tradition of his predecessor. This visit aims to raise awareness among those who have contributed to the destruction of this territory.