Smoke on the water

Abstract

Every year, Rosario is engulfed in smoke from intentional fires across the Paraná Delta, one of South America’s largest and most biodiverse wetlands. These fires—set to clear land for cattle, crops, or speculation—have destroyed hundreds of thousands of hectares, eroding biodiversity and weakening a vital climate buffer. The consequences extend into the city, where smoke triggers health crises, school closures, and protests. Despite public pressure, Argentina still lacks a Wetlands Law, with agroindustry interests blocking reform. The burning delta exposes not only an ecological and urban emergency but also a political failure, questioning destructive models of development and coexistence.