Chile Approves First Lake Villarrica Decontamination Plan

Chile’s Comptroller General gave the green light to the country’s first lake‑decontamination plan, targeting Lake Villarrica. The approval defines mitigation measures and assigns responsibilities to both public authorities and private actors. Pucón’s mayor, Sebastián Álvarez, said the plan could be incorporated into the 2027 budget, offering a framework for long‑term ecological recovery. Councilor Emilio Ulloa highlighted the historic nature of the decision, noting it provides a concrete tool to protect the region’s main natural heritage.

The plan follows extensive reviews and observations by the Comptroller, marking the end of a long‑standing wait for a comprehensive remediation strategy for the lake’s water quality.