18/10/2005 (Agence Europe) - On Tuesday, the Commission decided to take action against Italy concerning 11 cases of failing to fulfil its obligations under Community environment law. In 10 of these 11 cases, Italy is criticised for failing to communicate essential information on atmospheric pollution, the protection of nature, waste management, assessments of impact on the environment (reasoned opinion) and biotechnologies. "Despite numerous warnings, Italy is still not fully in line with EU legislation on the environment, and has not proved cooperative in responding to our requests for information. The Italian authorities must now rapidly take the measures required so that the population and the environment in Italy can enjoy the protection offered by European law", warned Commissioner for the Environment, Stavros Dimas.