Argentina Eases Glacier Mining Protections

Argentina's Congress approved a controversial bill promoted by President Javier Milei that eases glacier protections to facilitate investments in mining for metals. The legislation, which was already approved by the Senate, passed with 137 votes in favor. Mining sector estimates suggest the new framework could unlock over $30 billion in investments over the next decade, with 70% allocated to new copper, gold, and silver projects. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace and the Environment and Natural Resources Foundation, vow to challenge the law in courts, organizing a public class-action lawsuit. They argue the reform threatens water access and fragile ecosystems, while opposition lawmakers label it unconstitutional. The new framework narrows protections, shielding only glaciers and landforms with 'specific hydrological functions,' with each province responsible for determination. This contrasts with the 2010 law that banned all mining activity on glaciers and periglacial zones.