In 1993, Chile adopted an Indigenous Law that enabled land restitution; by 2023…

Since 1993, over 510,000 acres have been returned to Mapuche communities in Chile under the Indigenous Law. A study revealed minimal changes in forest cover on the restituted lands. It observed a decline in commercial plantations and a slight rise in agricultural pastures, emphasizing the importance of traditional economic practices alongside conservation. This situation illustrates the need for distinct strategies in managing land rights and environmental restoration efforts.