Argentina approves Milei’s glacier mining bill amid environmental protests

Argentina's Chamber of Deputies approved a controversial amendment to the "glacier law," backed by President Milei, which eases restrictions on mining in frozen Andean regions. The legislation, already approved by the senate in February, facilitates the extraction of metals like copper, lithium, and silver. The vote occurred after nearly 12 hours of debate, with 137 in favor, 111 against, and 3 abstentions. Environmentalists argue the changes weaken protections for vital water sources, leading to protests outside parliament where demonstrators clashed with police. Critics, including scientists and activists, claim sustainable mining in periglacial environments is impossible, citing glacier shrinkage in mining-concentrated areas.

Argentina's Congress recently passed a controversial bill amending the 2010 Glacier Law, which previously prohibited mining activities in glacier regions. The reform shifts the responsibility of defining protected glacier areas from the national Argentine Institute for Snow, Ice and Environmental Sciences (Ianigla) to provincial governments. Proponents, including President Milei, argue the change empowers provinces to utilize resources and allows mining where protection isn't needed, while backers say the law still protects glaciers. Opponents, including environmental groups, claim the amendment weakens protections for crucial water sources, potentially endangering water access for millions. The bill was supported by governors of mineral-rich provinces who believe the original law hindered economic development.

Argentina's Chamber of Deputies approved a bill, previously supported by President Milei, that permits mining in glacier and permafrost areas within the Andes mountains. The amendment to the Glacier Law, already approved by the Senate in February, passed with 137 votes in favor, sparking outrage from environmentalists who argue it weakens protections for crucial water sources. The bill facilitates the extraction of metals like copper, lithium, and silver. Thousands protested outside parliament, resulting in clashes with police and the arrest of Greenpeace activists. Supporters of the bill argue that environmental protection and sustainable development can coexist, a position rejected by environmental activists.