Bolivia is seeking investments for an aggressive oil and gas exploration program—including in virtually all areas that have been earmarked by the national government for environmental protection. The Economic and Social Development Plan 2016-2020, issued by Bolivian President Evo Morales in March following its approval by the Legislative Assembly, says the country will “initiate hydrocarbon exploration in protected areas employing technology that minimizes environment impact.” The 216-page document, which sets national development goals including the eradication of extreme poverty, refers to protected areas as “ecosystems of unique characteristics,” but also as “important reservoirs of non-renewable natural resources.” Bolivia created its first national park in 1939, but it wasn’t until 1992 that the country’s National System of Protected Areas (SNAP) was established. The... [Log in to read more]