She figured to be one of new Chilean President Ricardo Lagos’ more controversial picks, and former environmental activist Adriana Hoffmann did not disappoint. After becoming head of Chile’s National Environmental Commission (Conama) last month, Hoffmann launched an environmental review of high-profile investment projects. She also unveiled plans for a new government body. Its mission: to verify in the field whether Conama-approved projects live up to the requirements of Chile’s regional environmental commissions. Hoffmann’s selection and fast start are seen here as evidence that the environment will be a high priority for the Lagos administration. But they also have stirred concern in Chile’s conservative business community. Leaders of the nation’s agricultural, timber and industrial trade associations have been particularly outspoken. They assert that as... [Log in to read more]