Argentina passes bill to allow mining in glaciers, permafrostAFP and Reuters, BUENOS AIRESArgentine lawmakers yesterday approved a bill promoted by Argentine President Javier Milei that authorizes mining in ecologically sensitive areas of glaciers and permafrost, a step environmentalists and scientists have said would weaken protections and threaten water resources. The Argentine Chamber of Deputies, the lower house of Congress, passed the reform 137-111, with three abstentions after nearly 12 hours of debate. Climbers trek on the Perito Moreno Glacier, near El Calafate, Argentina, on Jan. 14, 2020. Since 2010, legislation has barred mining and industrial activity in the areas and set minimum standards to protect water reserves. Governors of major mining provinces and companies say the reform clarifies rules for investment and could position Argentina as a key copper and lithium supplier for the energy transition.

Source: Taipei Times April 09, 2026 17:59 UTC