The Municipality of Doberdò del Lago

The municipality of Doberdò del Lago includes almost half of the plateau of the same name. To the north it borders with the municipalities of Sagrado and Savogna d’Isonzo, to the east it extends to the border with Slovenia. The Vallone basin represents an important way of communication between the Karst areas of Trieste and Gorizia. To the south it borders with the municipalities of Duino-Aurisina and Monfalcone, whereas to the west with those of Ronchi dei Legionari and Fogliano-Redipuglia. It is part of the Province of Gorizia, of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and of the Monfalcone district. For some facilities it is associated with a group of municipalities on the left side of the Isonzo river of the Province of Gorizia that agreed to coordinate their activities (“Comuni della Sinistra Isonzo” agreement). The name Doberdò Plateau refers to the westernmost edge of the actual Karst. The north and northwest border of the plateau follow the Isonzo river, while on the north-east the border is determined by the Vipacco river. On the south, in the area between Monfalcone and the sources of the Timavo river, the Karst region is separated from the sea by a very narrow strip of flat land. On the west the plateau declines decisively towards the Friuli plain. Doberdò del Lago is the only capital city of a municipality in the Karst area of ​​Gorizia.
The Municipality of Doberdò del Lago has a very special lake on its territory: it is a rare example of a karst lake without superficial rivers that act as tributaries and emissaries. Another similar example of a karst lake is that of Cerknica in Slovenia. In both lakes the waters flow there through some underground springs and rivers as well as the pluvial supply; whereas the outflow is guaranteed by underground cavities and evaporation. The hydrology of Lake Doberdò has been the subject of various studies and researches.

The municipality has considerable experience in participating in European projects, including Italy-Slovenia cross-border programmes. It was part of several projects to promote the sustainable development and the environmental protection, among others also in the fields of energy efficiency, public lighting and improving energy performances in buildings. To take part in the project means an upgrade of the results so far. The municipality owns a study centre with outdated lighting, which is a suitable building for a pilot activity to regulate energy-efficient and quality lighting. There is the need to update the lighting cadastre and to introduce an energy management system. In cooperation with schools, it is possible to carry out educational activities for students. By carrying out the project activities, the municipality implements the measures envisaged in the sustainable energy plan (Covenant of Mayors). Engaging in the project signifies the contribution to the dissemination of knowledge and experience in the field of energy efficiency measures in the cross-border area.