Summary
Argentina has passed a new bill that changes glacier protection laws. The amendment allows for more mining in glacier areas by shifting control from national to provincial authorities. This change has led to protests from environmentalists who are concerned about the impact on water resources.
Key Facts
- Argentina's Congress passed a reform that changes glacier protection laws.
- The new bill allows provinces to decide if glaciers are protected, rather than a national body.
- President Javier Milei supported the reform, stating it empowers provinces to use their resources.
- The original Glacier Law from 2010 protected glaciers as important water reserves.
- Critics worry the reform risks key water sources and could impact drought-prone areas.
- There are about 16,968 glaciers in Argentina, which provide water to many provinces.
- Environmentalists argue that all glaciers naturally act as water reserves.
- The reform has caused protests and has been divisive among lawmakers and the public.
