Illegal Mercury Trade Fuels Amazon Crisis | JQJO

A new report reveals uncontrolled mercury production in Mexico, the world's second-largest producer, fueled by high gold prices and cartel involvement. Illicit networks smuggle mercury to South America, contaminating the Amazon and causing severe environmental and health damage. Despite Mexico reporting zero production, the EIA tracked 200 tonnes from active mines in Querétaro, polluting the Sierra Gorda biosphere reserve. Cartel control and lack of oversight contribute to this devastating trade, with a five-tonne seizure in Peru highlighting the scale of the problem. The resulting mercury contamination poses significant health risks, particularly to Indigenous communities relying on contaminated fish for sustenance. Experts urge stronger enforcement and international cooperation to combat this illegal trade.