Reflection and Dialogue at the Second Socio-Environmental Forum on Green Hydrogen in Magallanes
The event was collaboratively organized by H2 Chile, H2V Magallanes AG, the Regional Government, the Transforma Green Hydrogen Magallanes Program, Corfo, and EINAS Environmental Consulting , with additional support from the University of Magallanes .
María José Navajas , Regional Director of CORFO , was one of the guests who inaugurated the event, highlighting the interest demonstrated by the large audience. “The number of attendees shows the community’s interest in being part of what is happening in our region,” she said. “We are talking about a new economic sector on a global level, not just in the Magallanes Region. One of the goals is to contribute to the planet’s decarbonization.” Navajas also emphasized the three years of joint work with the regional government, industry, and public services, underlining collaboration with authorities such as the SEREMIS of Public Works, Science, Labor, Environment, and Economy to foster the region’s sustainable development.
The forum featured presentations by experts, including sociologist Ricardo Ibarra and Mauricio Ojeda , Manager of Grupo Singular , who discussed topics such as citizen participation and the economic challenges associated with green hydrogen in Magallanes.
The event also included an engaging panel discussion , moderated by Mónica Buvinic , Regional Director of H2V Magallanes and Public Affairs Manager at Total Energies H2 . The discussion featured local figures such as Felipe Lagos , Director of the Regional Studies Center at UMAG , along with community and regional government representatives, who deliberated on the need to preserve regional identity and promote relevant employment opportunities in this emerging industry.
Throughout the event, various topics were addressed, including the industry’s impact, employment opportunities, regional identity, and potential challenges for social cohesion in the area.
The President of the Punta Arenas Neighborhood Councils Union, Marion Gómez , who participated in the discussion, stated: “Ordinary citizens welcome progress and new businesses because they bring development to the region, but they are somewhat concerned about how the city will accommodate these large companies. Are we really prepared to receive such large enterprises?”
Although the industry is still in its early stages, forums like this are essential for keeping the community informed about this emerging sector and preparing for its future implementation in the region.
You can watch the Forum and Panel Discussion at this link .
