In Latin America, metal mining leaves behind a devastating trail: pollution, disease, and forced displacement that particularly affect vulnerable communities. Although it is presented as a solution for economic development, its negative impacts on health, the environment, and communities are alarming, particularly in regions near extractive projects.

A clear example is El Salvador, the first country in the world to ban metal mining in 2017. However, this environmental victory was recently reversed when the law was repealed and mining projects were activated, ignoring widespread public outcry. The decision threatens to contaminate water sources, destroy biodiversity, and further exacerbate the water crises facing the country, putting the health of all its inhabitants at risk.

Chile, the world's largest copper producer, also faces serious consequences of this economic activity. In the north of the country, doctors report an alarming situation affecting children's health caused by air and water pollution from open-pit mining projects. Meanwhile, in Honduras, indigenous communities face river pollution, forced displacement, and even the murder of environmental defenders for opposing mining projects. The criminal prosecution of territorial defenders in cases like that of the Guapinol River reflects collusion between the state and the private sector. Meanwhile, in Argentina, lithium exploitation, presented as a "green" alternative, is depleting vital water reserves for indigenous peoples and local farmers.

Mining projects not only destroy ecosystems; they also fragment communities, perpetuate cycles of poverty, and increase inequality throughout the region. Toxic chemicals such as cyanide and mercury poison water and soil, leaving irreparable consequences and jeopardizing food security. Minerals such as copper and lithium are key resources for the world's energy transition processes, but their impact on biodiversity and human health is evident.

Understanding these impacts is crucial. Mining is directly linked to forced displacement and environmental crises that force thousands to abandon their lands. It's time to educate ourselves, speak out, and demand that governments prioritize life and the environment over short-term economic interests. The fight for a sustainable future begins now.

‍