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Takeaways from AP’s report on a boom in mercury mining in central Mexico
- Mercury mining has surged in Mexico's Sierra Gorda region as rising global gold prices have increased both the demand for and cost of mercury since 2011.
- This demand increased following the 2017 agreement signed by Mexico and 151 other nations to prohibit mercury extraction and make its export unlawful, while allowing smaller artisanal mines to operate until 2032 before closing.
- The mining boom supports a large number of miners and their relatives despite widespread mercury poisoning, environmental damage, and the illegal distribution of mercury primarily to Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru.
- The price of mercury jumped from $20 per kilogram in 2011 to $240-$350, and miners say, "It's worth poisoning myself if I'm going to earn something," highlighting economic hardship and health risks.
- Researchers and authorities warn that mercury mining threatens biodiversity in the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve and international efforts to curb mining have sometimes increased demand and criminal involvement concerns.
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26 Articles
26 Articles
Associated Press News+23 Reposted by 23 other sources
Illegal gold mining is fueling a 'mercury boom' in Mexico, poisoning people and the environment
The soaring price of gold is fueling a "mercury boom" in central Mexico. A surge in the demand for the toxic metal, which is key in illegal gold mining, is benefiting Mexican miners but also exposing them and the environment to mercury poisoning.
·United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources26
Leaning Left11Leaning Right3Center9Last UpdatedBias Distribution48% Left
Bias Distribution
- 48% of the sources lean Left
48% Left
L 48%
C 39%
13%
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