💨 Abstract

Indigenous and rural communities along the Nanay River in Peru's northern Amazon have filed a complaint against the Peruvian government for its failure to stop illegal gold mining, which is contaminating their water and food with mercury. The communities allege that Peru has violated a 2012 regional policy aimed at combating illegal mining. Leaders from these communities have reported widespread mercury contamination, with over 80% of residents affected, especially children.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff