Colombia to file law banning fracking in Congress on July 20

The Colombian government announced it will file a bill in the Congress on July 20, during the opening of the new legislative period, to permanently prohibit hydraulic fracturing. The proposal is supported by the ministries of Mines and Energy and Environment, as well as members of the Historic Pact, and is presented as a measure to protect water sources, strategic ecosystems and community health.

Minister of Mines and Energy Edwin Palma said the initiative reflects President Gustavo Petro’s environmental agenda and aims to cement the country’s energy transition before the next administration. The incoming president, Abelardo de la Espriella, has indicated he would allow fracking under strict regulations outside protected areas, setting the stage for a debated congressional process.