Argentina’s Congress has approved a bill easing protections for glacial formations, a move welcomed by mining companies and opposed by environmentalists. The legislation, backed by President Javier Milei, authorizes mining in ecologically sensitive areas of glaciers and permafrost in the Andes mountains.
The amendment to the existing “glacier law” will facilitate the extraction of metals like copper, lithium, and silver. Environmentalists and scientists have warned the change threatens vital water resources and fragile ecosystems.
Thousands have demonstrated against the bill, expressing concerns over potential environmental damage. The law will take effect upon publication in the official gazette.
The move represents a significant legislative change, easing restrictions previously in place for mining projects in these regions.