Chile transferred 217,716 hectares to Mapuche communities, but the land returns did not automatically increase forest cover, study finds
Chile returned significant land to Mapuche communities between 1994 and 2021. Satellite data revealed mixed vegetation changes, with no overall forest cover increase. Returned lands were often degraded pastures or exotic tree plantations. Communities lacked resources for sustainable management and restoration efforts. Future conservation funding should support ecological work and technical assistance.
Chile returned significant land to Mapuche communities between 1994 and 2021. Satellite data revealed mixed vegetation changes, with no overall forest cover increase. Returned lands were often degraded pastures or exotic tree plantations. Communities lacked resources for sustainable management and restoration efforts. Future conservation funding should support ecological work and technical assistance.
