As of March 29, 2025, the communes of Rancagua and Machalí will implement a total ban on the use of firewood for heating in their urban areas. This measure seeks to reduce the high levels of pollution during the coldest months of the year, which seriously affect the health of its inhabitants.
The Atmospheric Decontamination Plan also covers another 15 communes of the Central Valleyincluding Graneros, Doñihue and Rengo. The restrictions will extend to the use of devices such as salamanders and wood stoves in urban areas, highlighting the authorities’ commitment to a structural change towards cleaner energy.
To facilitate this change, the Government will allocate more than 3.6 billion pesos in a heater replacement program. This plan will offer incentives economical and technical support to residents, prioritizing the adoption of ecological technologies that reduce polluting emissions.
The importance of taking care of the environment
Giovanna Amaya, Environment Minister, highlighted that this initiative is just one step within a comprehensive strategy that seeks to protect public health and promote a sustainable energy transition in Chili.
With these measures, Chili reaffirms its commitment to the environment, setting a precedent for future sustainability policies in the region.