Argentina's Chamber of Deputies approved a reform to the Glaciers Law early Thursday by 137 votes in favor, 111 against, and 3 abstentions. The change allows extractive activities like mining in previously protected areas, sparking backlash from environmentalists and citizens. Over 300,000 people joined a collective unconstitutionality lawsuit, and La Pampa's governor filed a judicial injunction.
Argentina's Chamber of Deputies passed a reform to the original Glaciers Law, enacted 15 years ago to protect glaciers and periglacial environments as strategic freshwater reserves. The new version enables high-impact interventions, such as mining, in previously protected areas.
Over 105,000 citizens registered for public hearings, but only 0.2% were heard, according to reports. In response, civil society mobilized: via demandacolectivaglaciares.org, more than 300,000 people joined a collective unconstitutionality lawsuit promoted by groups like FARN and Greenpeace.
Actress Nacha Guevara harshly criticized the deputies in an Instagram video: "Miren que hacen cagadas ustedes, pero esta no tiene perdón" (Look what messes you make, but this one has no forgiveness). She added: "When time passes and you're dying from some disease, terminal maybe... I wish you remember this day you raised your hand".
La Pampa Governor Sergio Ziliotto filed a judicial injunction against the law, seeking its suspension due to impacts on water access. Environmental organizations are also pushing collective lawsuits.
