ABSTRACT
This research focuses on the crisis of Taranto, and starts by analysing the current state of shock caused by the presence of the steel factory, ILVA. The factory has caused disastrous effects on environmental, social, economic and urban conditions. To deal with this problem local citizens, joined by voluntary associations, initiated processes of urban regeneration from the bottom, reactivating small portions of urban land (abandoned structures, disused areas, etc.). The citizens of Taranto proved themselves to be able to live in life-threatening conditions, awkward conditions they would have never thought they would have to cope with. The purpose of the activities carried out by the associations was to educate citizens to become smart and sustainable.
