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ENI-SLAPP independent investigative journalism: a painted fire-breathing lion, an industrial landscape and the scales of Justice

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About

About Me

I’ve been writing about bioplastics since 2013 as the editor of Bioplastics News.

Over the years, I’ve covered the bioplastics industry, its technologies, environmental claims, regulatory developments, and corporate practices. I’ve also used satire, sarcasm, and humor to criticize powerful companies and institutions.

That approach has brought me into conflict with some of the industry’s biggest players.

Today, I am defending myself against legal proceedings brought by ENI and Novamont, two companies seeking a combined €3.15 million in damages in Italy.

I am also involved in separate proceedings in Belgium initiated by a European Commission official acting in a personal capacity.

Why This Website Exists

I created ENI-SLAPP to document these legal proceedings and examine a broader question:

Can an independent journalist or blogger critically examine powerful companies and public institutions without facing financially overwhelming litigation?

This website has four objectives:

  1. Document my legal cases, including developments, correspondence, and relevant documents.
  2. Examine SLAPPs — strategic lawsuits against public participation — and their potential impact on freedom of expression.
  3. Investigate corporate and regulatory practices, particularly in the oil, chemicals, and plastics industries.
  4. Defend the role of satire as a legitimate form of public criticism.

Satire Is Part of My Writing

I have never claimed to be a conventional journalist who writes without opinions.

I believe humor and satire are powerful tools for questioning authority. To illustrate this approach, I created a fictional satirical character named Eni Versalis.

As Molière famously expressed it: “The duty of comedy is to correct men by amusing them.”

The legal proceedings against me are real. The satire is intentional. Readers should distinguish documented facts, personal opinions, and satirical commentary.

The European Commission and Freedom of Expression

The European Union has adopted measures intended to protect public participation against abusive litigation.

I have repeatedly contacted the European Commission seeking guidance about the protections available to individuals facing potentially abusive legal proceedings.

Although the Commission responded, I remain concerned about the gap between the principles of anti-SLAPP protection and the practical assistance available to individuals.

My experience raises a question: What is the value of protection against abusive litigation if obtaining that protection requires years of expensive litigation?

Why Bioplastics Matter

My original reporting has focused heavily on compostable and soil-biodegradable plastics.

I have publicly questioned their environmental benefits, regulatory treatment, and potential long-term consequences for soil ecosystems.

I believe these questions deserve independent scientific scrutiny and open public debate, especially where public funding and environmental policy are involved.

My Position

I do not expect everyone to agree with my opinions, my conclusions, or my humor.

I do, however, believe that disagreement should be addressed through evidence, transparency, and open discussion.

Criticism is not a crime. Satire is not a crime. And asking uncomfortable questions should not require millions of euros in legal defenses.

This website documents my experience and invites readers to examine the evidence and draw their own conclusions.

Further Reading and Original Links

These original articles and archives are preserved as further reading. Some include opinion or satire and should be read in that context.