Abstract

The objective of this paper is to explain why Chile’s new peatlands environmental protection law, passed in 2024, represents a shift towards a new legal paradigm for nature protection. It frames the law as a climate action measure aligned with the concept of “nature-based solutions” and as a consolidation of the ecological pillar established by the climate change law (2022) and the biodiversity law (2023). To this end, the paper first describes the characteristics of peatlands as valuable ecosystems. Then outlines the new paradigm, analyzes the content of the new law—highlighting how its provisions reflect this paradigm (successes)—and recognizes the application of key legal principles already enshrined in the aforementioned general laws: the scientific and precautionary principles, the ecosystem approach, and the principles of climate equity and justice. The article concludes by identifying some of the law’s shortcomings, followed by final conclusions. © 2025, Centro de Investigaciones Energeticas Medioambientales y Tecnologicas (CIEMAT). All rights reserved.