The pollution of the Napo River due to illegal mining in Ecuador is affecting the health of the Kichwa community and the biodiversity of the ecosystem. Results of blood samples from residents of four parishes close to the river and its tributaries revealed levels of heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, zinc, and iron above the reference values established by the WHO and other international organizations.
The lack of job opportunities in this region of Amazonia has forced many families to rely on illegal mining as their sole source of income despite the risks to their health. The presence of mercury in the water and the contamination from human waste exacerbate the situation even more, impacting aquatic and wildlife species.
Efforts to control illegal mining have been insufficient so far, and the lack of public funds has allowed this unlawful activity to continue.
This story was produced with support from the Earth Journalism Network. It was first published in El Comercio on June 17, 2024. It has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Banner image: Pollution in the Napo River, Ecuador / Credit: Diego Pallero/EL COMERCIO.
Gabriela Quiroz Yánez
