The Estero Reñaca in Viña del Mar, Chile, has been officially recognized as an urban wetland by the Ministry of the Environment. This significant designation adds 16.9 hectares to Chile's protected areas, bringing the national total of protected urban wetlands to 134. This marks a crucial step in preserving vital ecosystems within urban landscapes, with Estero Reñaca being the second protected wetland in the city of Viña del Mar.
The Estero Reñaca is an integral part of the urban fabric, flowing through populated areas such as Reñaca, Gómez Carreño, and Santa Julia before meeting the Pacific Ocean. It serves as a critical sanctuary for native wildlife, including the Great Egret, Snowy Egret, and Common Gallinule. The ecological richness of the area is further underscored by the presence of over 70 plant species, with 26 being native, highlighting its considerable biological value.
Beyond its ecological significance, Estero Reñaca plays a pivotal role in bolstering urban resilience. During winter months, it acts as a natural water regulator, significantly reducing the risk of floods. In the summer, its vegetation and water surfaces help to mitigate the effects of urban heatwaves. These inherent environmental services position the wetland as a key ally in the broader efforts to combat climate change impacts.
Environmental organizations that have long championed the protection of this area have welcomed the declaration. The Ministry of the Environment emphasized that urban wetlands are indispensable for adapting to climate change challenges, such as extreme rainfall and drought, while also being crucial for biodiversity conservation and the safeguarding of ecologically important sites. Research indicates that urban wetlands can improve air quality and mitigate the urban heat island effect, providing essential natural infrastructure for cities.
With this official designation, Estero Reñaca is now formally integrated into Chile's expanding network of protected urban wetlands. Chile has been actively expanding its network of protected urban wetlands, with a law enacted in 2020 aiming to integrate these areas into city planning and halt indiscriminate development. As of May 2023, 100 urban wetlands had been declared, covering over 10,951 hectares, demonstrating a growing commitment to integrating nature into urban development.