Uruguay to protect Bañados de Carrasco wetlands, clarifying real estate project status

Uruguay's Ministry of Environment announced it will officially include Bañados de Carrasco in the national protected wetlands regime through a new decree expected this month. Environment Minister Edgardo Ortuño stated the decree aims to "dispel doubts and manage" concerns arising from a lucrative real estate development planned for the ecologically sensitive area.

The proposed project, spearheaded by Argentine businessman Eduardo Costantini, involves 228 hectares and plans for a new neighborhood. While the ministry's decree will establish that the wetlands cannot be drained, the specifics of the development are still under review by the Montevideo Departmental Board and the Intendancy of Montevideo. Ortuño indicated that the ministry will take additional time to collaborate with the Montevideo and Canelones intendancies on protection measures for Bañados de Carrasco.

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will allow to dispel the doubts and managements that arose

The project has sparked controversy among residents, academics, and even within the ruling party. Bañados de Carrasco is considered the last major green space in northeastern Montevideo, bordering Canelones. The development plans include a public linear park, a civic center, commercial zones, and housing for 3,000 residents. Developers claim they will preserve and enhance the area's environmental value, a promise met with skepticism by some stakeholders but which has reportedly found positive reception and initial backing from the Intendancy of Montevideo.

Previously, a local legislator had intended to summon the minister to the Environment Commission to discuss the project. However, following the ministry's decision to issue the new decree, the legislator has decided to withdraw the request, suggesting the government's action may preempt further legislative scrutiny.

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The delimitation means that these wetlands cannot be drained.