It has been a year since Ecuadorians voted to halt oil drilling in Yasuni National Park, a biodiverse region in the Amazon. However, the government has not taken steps to shut down operations, causing frustration among supporters of the referendum. The Waorani people, whose territory overlaps the park, are disappointed by the lack of progress.
Last year, nearly 60% of voters supported the referendum to end drilling in block 43-ITT, aiming to protect nature and Indigenous communities. The government and state-run Petroecuador were given a year to close wells and infrastructure, but Ecuador now seeks a five-year extension beyond the original deadline of August 2024.
The Ministry for Energy and Mines did not comment on the matter, but officials mentioned working on an 'exit plan' with Petroecuador. Some experts argue that the one-year timeline was insufficient for dismantling operations, especially amid economic challenges and a state of emergency declared earlier this year.
The oil industry in the Ecuadorian Amazon has a history of spills, impacting local communities with health issues. Despite promises to shut down drilling, the government did not allocate funds for this purpose in the current budget, raising doubts about its commitment.
Environmental groups and Indigenous communities are concerned about the government's delay and lack of transparency. The Union of People Affected by Petroleum Operations reported frequent oil spills in the region, emphasizing the need for accountability and proper closure of oil fields.
Indigenous leaders, including the Waorani, are advocating for their involvement in the process and highlighting the negative impact of oil extraction on their communities. They stress the importance of honoring the referendum results and prioritizing the well-being of both nature and people in the region.
