Chile’s President Kast tosses out dozens of environmental protections

Chile's newly inaugurated President Jose Antonio Kast has suspended 43 environmental protection rules, marking a shift towards more conservative policies. The measures, introduced mainly during the final days of former President Gabriel Boric's term, affect regulations concerning power plant emissions, smelting plant pollution, and the establishment of new national parks. The Environment Ministry stated the suspensions are standard practice for new administrations to update policies. Kast defended the decision by emphasizing the need for economic growth and job creation alongside environmental protection. The ministry also assured that the changes aim to ensure high legal standards, public wellbeing, and effective protection of Chile's natural heritage.

Chilean President Jose Antonio Kast initiated the construction of a border barrier on the country's northern border with Peru, fulfilling a key campaign promise. The "Border Shield" plan aims to curb illegal immigration into Chile. The project, launched in the Chacalluta frontier area, includes ditches, fences, drone surveillance, and military patrols. Construction began with a single bulldozer digging a trench in the desert. Kast emphasized the significance of the barrier as a milestone for Chile. The initiative seeks to address the influx of immigrants crossing into Chile, one of the region's most prosperous nations.