Mining will now be allowed in areas surrounding glaciers near the Andes mountains after the Lower House approved modifications to a law that protects those ice masses. The change gives provinces the power to decide over potential mining projects in those regions. The proposal passed in the early hours of Thursday with 137 votes in favor, 111 against and three abstentions. It also created an inventory of glaciers and periglacial areas. Argentina was the first country in the world to approve a law protecting glaciers and periglacial areas, which established protection across the country, superseding the provinces’ power of decision on natural resources in their areas.

Source: Bueno Aires Herald April 09, 2026 18:06 UTC