Fernando Errico said protection of the territory and environmental safety must take priority in any decision on hydrocarbon exploration in the Fortore area.
According to NTR24, Errico called for safeguards for the environment, health and groundwater, alongside clear information, technical checks and involvement of local communities. According to Eco del Sannio, he said municipalities and affected communities should take part in decisions on the basis of transparent and reliable data.
The project at issue is “Pietra Spaccata,” an application for a hydrocarbon exploration permit submitted by Delta Energy on February 28, 2011. The Ministry’s September 30, 2026 bulletin lists it as application 409, covering 214.00 square kilometres in Campania.
The municipalities identified in the sources are Baselice, Castelpagano, Circello, Colle Sannita, Foiano di Val Fortore, Molinara, Pesco Sannita, Reino, San Giorgio La Molara and San Marco dei Cavoti. According to Il Mattino, local authorities are preparing a coordinated response, and the project has become the subject of renewed mobilisation by the municipalities and the Province of Benevento.
Errico argues that any exploration or extraction must be assessed against the Fortore’s agricultural, environmental and tourism characteristics. He requests clear project information, rigorous technical checks, environmental-safety guarantees and prior involvement of local communities.
Errico says he intends to submit an interrogation to the regional president and the competent councillor to obtain the project documentation, according to NTR24. Il Mattino reports that local officials have expressed opposition or requested access to official documents before taking a position.
It has not been established that a final exploration permit or extraction authorisation has been issued. The technical scope, timetable, drilling methods and current procedural status of the project are not fully documented in the acquired material.
