In Ecuador, environmentalists worry Noboa is unwinding nation’s green reputation

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Recent moves in Ecuador have environmental interests concerned that the South American nation is unwinding some of the basis for its green reputation. President Daniel Noboa has eliminated the Environment Ministry as an independent institution, folding it into the Energy and Mines Ministry. Activists and Indigenous leaders say the move weakens protections for some of the world’s most biodiverse areas and paves the way for expanded oil and mining projects. They also warn that a proposed law ostensibly aimed at choking off money for illegal mining and organized crime will actually cause serious harm to nonprofits. The government argues the changes will improve efficiency and curb illicit financing. By Steven Grattan, Associated PressThis article was originally publish