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Argentina · Glaciers · Milei · Mining
Argentina's Congress approved President Javier Milei's bill, easing protections for glaciers and permafrost, making it easier to mine metals like copper, lithium, and silver in the Andes, despite 111 votes against and widespread environmental protests.
The amendment to the 2010 "glacier law" passed the chamber of deputies with 137 votes in favor, 111 against, and three abstentions after nearly 12 hours of debate, following Senate approval in February. Environmentalists, including seven Greenpeace activists who were arrested, argue the changes weaken crucial water source protections, with activist Flavia Broffoni stating "no possibility of creating a ‘sustainable mine’ in a periglacial environment." Milei, a free-market radical, asserts the bill is vital to attract large-scale mining projects, aiming to triple mining exports by 2030, according to Central Bank of Argentina estimates based on industry forecasts.
Supporters, including governors of northern Andean provinces like Mendoza and San Juan, seek legal certainty and clearer definitions for economic development in periglacial areas, as stated by Michael Meding, managing director of the Los Azules copper mining project. Enrique Viale, president of the Argentine Association of Environmental Lawyers, warns the legislation threatens the water supply for 70% of Argentinians.
The new law grants individual provinces more power to decide protected areas, shifting from a scientific body.
