ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

In the last 10 years or so, Chileans have begun to become increasingly aware of environmental issues within their country. However, this growing awareness is often at odds with the commitment to economic growth. A prime example is the series of hydroelectric dams planned for the Bio Bio River. The electricity is needed and can also be sold to surrounding countries, but at what cost to the environment? Probably the singlemost important issue is the smog in Santiago. Sometimes it causes schools to close and older citizens to remain inside. The problem stems from the ever growing number of private vehicles used in the city. The city has instituted vehicle restrictions, where the last number of a license plate determines whether that particular car can be driven on a given day. In the south, the issues center around the forest and fishing industry. The felling of native forest and the replacement of fast-growing exotics such as eucalyptus and radiata pine is an issue, while the decline in the native species of the monkey puzzle tree (araucaria) and the alerce (conifer resembling a redwood) has been precipitous in the last few years. The growing salmon farming industry has drawn criticism for polluting both fresh and saltwater areas. Another issue is the growing use of chemicals and pesticides in the fruit industry.

Some issues are being presently addressed by the government, but in some people's opinion, they can't happen fast enough. Part of the problem may lie in the education and belief of the people that it will take everyone working together to solve the problems, and that there will have to be some compromise.

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