In an unprecedented move, Chile approved a decontamination plan for an aquatic ecosystem.
The Council of Ministers for Sustainability and Climate Change gave the green light for an ambitious strategy aimed at restoring water quality in the Villarrica Lake basin, located in the La Araucanía region.
This pioneering plan seeks to reduce nutrient pollution in the water, focusing on ecosystem-based solutions and specific regulations for human activities affecting the lake.
Decontamination plan in Chile: the issue
In recent years, an increase in nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the lake has been detected, mainly due to human activities such as aquaculture, land use, and the lack of wastewater treatment.
During the summer, these pollutants cause blooms of cyanobacteria, resulting in:
- Loss of water transparency, giving it a greenish hue.
- Risk to biodiversity, affecting fish and aquatic ecosystems.
- Possible harmful effects on human health due to toxins released into the water.
According to authorities, the goal is not only to restore the lake but also to strengthen sustainable tourism and the local economy.
Key measures of the plan
To reduce phosphorus loading in the lake, the plan includes a series of regulations and strategic actions.
First, an emission standard for fish farms is proposed to minimize their impact on the basin. Regulation of wastewater treatment plants to ensure proper waste management.
It also includes sanitary solutions for rural households to prevent direct discharges into the lake. Additionally, reforestation with native species on the shore to enhance pollutant absorption.
The plan involves monitoring of pollution sources and emissions compensation. Furthermore, the plan encompasses:
- Operational plans for algae blooms to prevent environmental crises.
- Training for sustainable tourism, promoting eco-friendly activities.
- Implementation of a water quality monitoring program, with a network to track diffuse pollution sources.
Financial strategy against climate change
During the same meeting, the local Ministry of Finance presented the Financial Strategy against Climate Change, aiming to align public and private efforts to finance climate change mitigation and adaptation in Chile.
About Villarrica Lake
The Villarrica Lake is located southeast of the Cautín province, north of the volcano, in the Araucanía region. It covers an area of 176 square kilometers.
Connecting a vast tourist area, it is a popular spot for sailors, swimmers, fishermen, and photography enthusiasts. With the background of the volcano and one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in southern Chile.
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