The Pereyra Iraola Biosphere Reserve has once again become the center of environmental debate following the emergence of new concerns related to the conservation of its ecosystems. Environmental organizations have warned about the lack of protection measures, maintenance issues, and the advancement of infrastructure works within this natural space recognized by UNESCO.
In particular, the concern is focused on the construction of the access that will connect the Buenos Aires–La Plata Highway with the Camino Parque Centenario, an intervention that, according to environmental sectors, could alter the ecological balance of a protected area of high biological value.
Meanwhile, the conflict remains open and adds judicial filings seeking to review the environmental impact of the works and reinforce conservation actions within the reserve.
Claims over the environmental impact of the new road connection
Members of the Pereyra Iraola Biosphere Reserve Assembly argue that the problem goes beyond the construction of the new road access. They also warn about the need to implement greater protection measures for the fauna inhabiting the area and improve the maintenance of different sectors.
Among the main demands is the implementation of actions to reduce animal collisions on the Centenario and General Belgrano roads, where traffic poses a constant risk to numerous wildlife species.
Additionally, environmentalists criticize that the commencement of works occurred without a recent instance of public participation and believe that alternative routes outside the reserve’s boundaries should have been considered to minimize potential environmental impacts.
Habitat fragmentation and calls for greater protection
One of the aspects that most concerns organizations is the possible fragmentation of natural environments caused by new road infrastructures.
The opening of roads can alter fauna movements, disrupt biological corridors, and promote landscape degradation processes through soil movements, noise, and increased vehicular traffic.
For this reason, various sectors request that any intervention be accompanied by updated environmental studies and specific mitigation measures that allow for the compatibility of works development with the conservation of protected ecosystems.
The ecological importance of the Pereyra Iraola Biosphere Reserve
The Pereyra Iraola Biosphere Reserve is one of the most significant natural spaces in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires due to the diversity of environments it hosts.
The area protects forests, grasslands, wetlands, and numerous watercourses that serve as a refuge for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, in addition to contributing to local climate regulation and the conservation of water resources.
Moreover, its designation as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO recognizes the balance between environmental conservation, scientific research, education, and productive activities compatible with nature care, making it a model of sustainable management for future generations.
A conflict that continues under judicial review
The controversy currently remains in the judicial sphere while various requests are made to review the planned interventions within the protected area.
Environmental organizations argue that any territorial modification must consider the preventive principle, prioritizing the protection of ecosystems against potential irreversible damage.
Meanwhile, the works continue under the jurisdiction of AUBASA, while the debate once again highlights the challenge of balancing infrastructure needs with the preservation of one of the most important ecological corridors in the province of Buenos Aires.
