"The Veladero gold and silver mine, operated by Barrick Mining Corporation and Shandong Gold, has faced allegations of illegal operations in protected areas under Argentina's glacier law, which is now being reformed."
"The new glacier law reform allows provincial authorities to decide which glaciers are protected, potentially opening high-altitude areas for mining, raising significant environmental concerns."
"Javier Milei's government views the reform as essential for attracting international investment and positioning Argentina as a leading exporter of critical minerals amid global energy transition demands."
Saul Zeballos, an activist from Jachal, Argentina, has raised concerns over the Veladero mine's environmental impact since its operation began in 2005. A cyanide spill in 2015 polluted local rivers, although subsequent studies indicated safe cyanide levels. Recent reforms to the glacier law, driven by Javier Milei's government, will ease restrictions on mining in glaciated areas, allowing provincial authorities to determine glacier protection. This change aims to attract international investment and enhance Argentina's role in critical mineral exports amid rising global demand.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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