Mongabay · Climate & nature

Artisanal Gold Mining in Peruvian Amazon Faces Challenges

In Peru's Madre de Dios region, thousands rely on gold mining, but mercury pollution and deforestation threaten the Amazon. A formalized artisanal mining operation in La Pampa is attempting to demonstrate a sustainable alternative, aiming for mercury-free "clean gold" production amidst significant obstacles.

The region's main gold mining hub, La Pampa, is experiencing clashes between police and miners, highlighting the volatile situation. Traditional methods involve using mercury to extract gold from gravel, which is then burned and sold, contributing to pollution.

Formalized miners are seeking recognition, contrasting their efforts with the negative perception of the region as solely a source of pollution and crime. They aim to counter the widespread misunderstanding of their work.

An alternative method using a gravimetric table and solar panels is being implemented to extract gold without mercury. This process concentrates gold through the table and then sinters the powder into solid pieces for sale, referred to as "ecological gold."

Despite the existence of mercury-free technology, miners face challenges in its implementation and long-term economic sustainability. They lack state support and often struggle with informal economies, where documentation and invoices are scarce, impacting the cost of necessary parts.

Miners express hope that the Peruvian state will eventually acknowledge and support their efforts towards formalization and sustainable practices, emphasizing the need to persevere despite the risks and difficulties.

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