Mar 19 • 20:08 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina Clarin (ES)

Reverse decision on Darwin's frog in Chile: Kast withdrew 43 environmental decrees, but had to reinstate one that protects a typical animal

José Antonio Kast, the new president of Chile, rescinded 43 environmental decrees from the previous government but reinstated one that protects the endangered Darwin's frog.

José Antonio Kast, who has assumed the presidency of Chile, initially sought to overturn a series of environmental measures enacted by the previous administration of Gabriel Boric. This move included the withdrawal of 43 environmental decrees designed to protect natural resources, reduce pollution, and create national parks. While the majority of these measures were rescinded, Kast encountered public backlash and pressure from the environmental community regarding one particular decree related to the protection of Darwin's frog, a species that is emblematic of Chile's biodiversity and is currently classified as endangered.

Following a comprehensive review of the situation, the Ministry of the Environment announced the reinstatement of the decree regarding the Recovery, Conservation, and Management Plan (RECOGE) for Darwin's frogs. This decision indicates a recognition of the importance of preserving not only the species but also the ecological balance within the country's environment. The return of the decree signifies a strategic compromise in Kast's governance, as maintaining the protection of endemic species like the Darwin's frog reflects a commitment to biodiversity, which is crucial for ecological stability.

The Darwin's frog, named after the famous English explorer Charles Darwin, who discovered the species in 1834, highlights the intersection of environmental policy and national identity. As a symbol of Chile's rich natural heritage, this amphibian's protection resonates with various stakeholders, including conservationists and the general public. The decision to reinstate the protection measures also underscores broader implications for future environmental policy in Chile, indicating the necessity for a balanced approach between economic development and ecological conservation, amid ongoing debates about climate change and habitat preservation.

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