Perspective from two nations on the rising toll illegal mining is taking in the Amazon basin

Illegal gold mining dredges on Putumayo River in Loreto region of Peru. (Photo courtesy of Cincia/ Claus Gar)

Rising world gold prices have spurred the expansion of illegal gold mining throughout the Amazon River basin, with criminal gangs and ordinary citizens seeking livelihoods causing widespread environmental damage as they dig and dredge the rainforest region. In this Centerpiece, EcoAméricas correspondents provide perspectives from two countries—Barbara Fraser on the growing public health threat illegal mining operations are posing in Peru, and Christina Noriega on reports of government complicity in the surge of black-market mining in Venezuela. Peru A recent report on mercury levels in people living along two rivers in Peru’s northeastern Loreto region has renewed concerns about the risks of exposure to the toxic metal, even in remote areas of Amazonia. The study, conducted in 2024, found mercury levels exceeding thresholds recommended by the World Health Organization, especially in children and women of child-bearing age. Although the study does not pinpoint the mercury’s... Read more →