Environmental risks face protected areas in Peru and Colombia

Environmental experts are warning of potential deforestation and habitat fragmentation in the Bahuaja Sonene National Park, specifically in the Candamo area, due to government plans to promote gas exploitation. Legal specialist César Ipenza noted that previous gas projects, such as Camisea, resulted in significant environmental damage, including the opening of rainforests for pipelines and the disruption of local ecosystems. Ipenza urged Congress to carefully evaluate any legal changes that would allow extractive activities within protected areas.

In a separate environmental legal matter in Colombia, a judge has ordered the cessation of land removal, construction, and channeling activities in the Aguas Calientes sector of Timaná. The ruling, issued by the Second Civil Circuit Court of Pitalito, follows a popular action raised by citizens concerned about the impact of these interventions on a local water source and the surrounding ecosystem. The court order requires the suspension of works while environmental protection and management measures are established.