Ecuador's Environmental Decisions: Protecting Amazon Reserve and Restricting Mining Near Quito

Ecuadoreans will vote in two referendums in August to decide whether to continue oil and mining projects in key regions of the country. If approved, the referendums could result in the closure of the 43-ITT block in the Yasuni nature reserve, potentially reducing Ecuador's crude oil output by 12%. Additionally, a local referendum in Quito could ban mining in the Choco Andino forest, affecting six gold concessions. Environmental activists argue that the bans are necessary to protect nature and fight climate change, while oil and mining guilds claim that the industries are crucial for the country's economy. Voters appear to be leaning towards approving the bans.