Reparation of the environmental damage caused to underground waters in the courts of Chile

Abstract

This paper reviews cases of environmental damage to Groundwater in Chile, known by the Ordinary and Environmental Courts. It will explain the norms that determine when there is damage, when it is "significant", what material "reparation" consists of, when the damage is irreparable, etc., and how these norms have been interpreted by the Courts. It is concluded that the Jurisprudence has evolved, but remains diverse, in the ordered material reparation measures, focusing rather on the preventive ones. Scientific work is essential to identify concrete and effective reparation measures, and to determine when damage is irreparable.