Ecuadorians Make History with Landmark Vote to Ban Oil Drilling on Amazon

Ecuadorians have voted in a historic referendum to ban oil drilling in the Yasuní National Park, located in the Amazon rainforest. With nearly 59% of voters rejecting oil drilling, the referendum comes as the impacts of climate change accelerate and the Amazon faces a dangerous tipping point. The park is known for its exceptional biodiversity, but underneath lies Ecuador's largest reserve of crude oil. Environmental and Indigenous groups argue that Ecuador should move away from fossil fuels and protect the Amazon, while some politicians warn of negative economic impacts. The referendum took place alongside the presidential and legislative elections.