How has environmental protection improved over the last two years?
President Boric’s government has pushed a series of key measures and legislation to strengthen environmental institutions and promote public participation in decision-making.
Chile has experienced significant progress in environmental protection under the leadership of President Boric.
His government has pushed a series of key measures and legislation to strengthen environmental institutions and promote public participation in decision-making.
You can review the main environmental protection measures that have been developed over the first two years of President Gabriel Boric’s government below.
Approval of the Law for Nature (SBAP)
The enactment of the Law for Nature marks a transcendental milestone in environmental protection in Chile.
After 13 years in Congress, Law 21.600 finally became a reality on September 6, 2023.
The integration of this law into the Environment Ministry, the Environmental Assessment Service and the Environment Superintendency strengthens the country’s institutional framework.
With a substantial increase in the budget allocated to environmental management and an increase in the number of park rangers, the implementation of the SBAP is a crucial tool in the fight against the climate crisis and biodiversity loss.
Key benefits include:
- Administrative efficiency: Centralizing the administration and protection of protected areas.
- Compliance with international recommendations: Advancing OECD recommendations on biodiversity.
- Identification of priority sites: For more effective protection.
- Conservation strategies: Especially for wetland protection.
Ratification of the Escazú Agreement
Chile became the 13th State Party to the Escazú Agreement on June 13, 2022, following a large majority in Congress and subsequent publication in the Official Gazette on October 25, 2022.
The Escazú Agreement is a pioneering global treaty that guarantees fundamental environmental rights, including access to information, participation in decision-making and access to environmental justice.
The implementation of the Escazú Agreement is being carried out in Chile through various actions, such as:
- Preparation and dissemination of the Agreement Implementation Plan
- Training of public officials
- International cooperation with other signatory countries
- Improved access to environmental information
Climate Change Framework Law
The publication of the Climate Change Framework Law (Law 21.455) on June 13, 2022, marks Chile’s path towards a sustainable future.
The law establishes clear goals to face the challenges of climate change, achieving carbon neutrality and climate resilience no later than 2050. It also contributes to fulfilling the global goals established in the Paris Agreement.
Creation of 32 protected areas
The government has worked tirelessly since March 2022 to create more than 30 new protected areas in Chile.
These areas – including the Tic Toc - Golfo Corcovado Marine Park and the Cochamó Valley Nature Sanctuary – are vital for biodiversity conservation and the protection of unique ecosystems.
Implementation of REP Law
The Extended Producer Responsibility Law (REP) establishes goals for the collection and valorization of priority products, such as tires and containers, and packaging made of materials including plastic, beverage cartons, paper and cardboard, glass and metal.
Implementation of the law took place in January and September 2023. It contributes significantly to environmental protection and people’s health.
With this significant progress in environmental matters, Chile is demonstrating its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development.