The Peruvian Amazon is facing one of its worst environmental crises in history. An illegal gold rush has destroyed nearly 140,000 hectares of rainforest, leaving behind barren landscapes, polluted rivers, and devastated communities. What began decades ago as small-scale prospecting has turned into a massive, organized operation fueled by record-breaking…
In Peru’s Amazon, the race for gold is creating a serious mercury poisoning crisis. As gold prices reach record highs, more people are digging illegally for it. But the cost is huge — poisoned rivers, sick fish, and communities facing slow, invisible damage. A Catholic bishop in Peru’s Amazon, Miguel…
On October 6, 2025, the Andean Community (CAN)—comprising Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia—delivered a stern ultimatum to Peru: it must take stronger, binding measures against mercury trafficking and illegal gold mining. Peru has 20 working days to present a detailed compliance plan, or face possible trade sanctions, including the imposition…
