Un Grado e Mezzo – Climate and Environment Festival

A festival bringing climate issues to high altitudes

Organized by the CentroScienza Association as part of the Science Weeks, Un Grado e Mezzo is a festival that weaves together scientific outreach, the environment, and mountain life, connecting the Piedmontese capital with the Upper Susa Valley. The name refers to the 1.5°C global temperature rise limit established by the Paris Agreement: a symbolic threshold that frames a journey of reflection on the climate crisis and sustainability. In Bardonecchia, located in the province of Turin and the heart of the Piedmontese Alps, the festival finds its most evocative setting, where science meets the landscape of the peaks.

Mountains as a mirror of our future

The guiding theme of the 2026 edition is clear from its title: «If the mountains are healthy, we are healthy too». The Alps are among the regions most exposed to global warming, where glaciers are retreating and environmental balances are shifting before our eyes. This is why Bardonecchia and the nearby town of Oulx serve as the ideal stage for observing mountain transformation up close, featuring thematic talks, open-air dialogues, and activities designed for families and children.

Scientists, writers, and communicators

The scientific direction is led by climatologist Elisa Palazzi, a well-known figure in climate communication. Guests across various editions have included climatologist Luca Mercalli, writer and mountaineer Enrico Camanni, forester Giorgio Vacchiano, science communicator Marco Ferrari, and cartoonist and activist Alessia Iotti (Alterales). One of the most anticipated events is the high-altitude meeting at the Sommeiller Bivouac, at approximately 3,000 meters, facing the remains of the glacier: a limited-capacity event designed to minimize environmental impact and experience the mountains as an open-air laboratory.

A widespread event for everyone

The program unfolds across multiple locations over several weeks, featuring a calendar that combines conferences, photography exhibitions, immersive experiences, and educational workshops, many of which are created in collaboration with the Regional Museum of Natural Sciences of Turin. Most meetings offer free admission, in line with the festival's inclusive and educational mission to bring climate issues to the general public without barriers.

• Main venue in Bardonecchia: Palazzo delle Feste
• Widespread events also in Oulx and Turin
• High-altitude meetings at the Sommeiller Bivouac
• Workshops for families and children