"Ecocide" bill advances in Senate, proposing up to 25 years in prison; agricultural sector calls it a "disaster"

A contentious bill aiming to criminalize "ecocide" and create a new legal framework for environmental crimes is gaining momentum in Argentina's Senate, sparking significant debate. The proposed legislation seeks to incorporate "ecocide" into the Penal Code, introducing severe penalties for acts causing exceptionally grave or irreversible environmental damage.

The initiative, driven by Senator Edith Terenzi, has secured backing from various legislators across different political factions, including prominent figures like Patricia Bullrich. However, the bill's potential impact on economic activities has drawn sharp criticism. The Argentine Rural Society (SRA), a powerful agricultural industry group, has vehemently rejected the proposal, labeling it a "disaster."

The core of the bill defines ecocide as environmental damage that is irreversible or particularly serious, committed in violation of environmental protection laws. Penalties range from three to ten years in prison for severe, extensive, and lasting damage, with sanctions escalating to five to 15 years for irreversible harm. A particularly controversial aspect is the provision for penalties of five to 25 years in prison if the environmental damage results in fatalities, and up to 10 years if two or more people die.

Further aggravating the debate, the bill includes a one-third increase in penalties when a public official is involved in the environmental offenses. While supporters argue the law is necessary to protect the environment, opponents fear it could stifle economic development and lead to disproportionate punishments for agricultural and industrial activities.