Argentina's Congress has approved a controversial bill that permits mining in ecologically sensitive glacier and permafrost regions, a move championed by libertarian President Javier Milei. The amendment to the existing glacier law was passed by the chamber of deputies with 137 votes in favor after extensive debate. This legislation aims to facilitate mining for valuable metals such as copper, lithium, and silver in the Andes mountains, despite significant opposition from environmentalists. Thousands protested outside the parliament, voicing concerns that the bill undermines protections for vital water sources. Activists, including seven from Greenpeace who were arrested, argue that mining in these areas is unsustainable and poses a threat to Argentina's glaciers, which have already shrunk by 17% over the last decade due to climate change. Supporters of the bill, including members of Milei's ruling party, believe it will provide legal clarity and bolster the mining sector, which is crucial for Argentina's economy as it seeks to increase its mining exports by threefold by 2030. The new law allows individual provinces to determine which glacier areas can be exploited, a change that has garnered backing from governors of northern provinces with strong mining interests.