In this report from IUCN-NL, CEDIB has systematized and analyzed the case of mercury in Bolivia and its impacts in environment, indigenous population and human rights.
As we know, in Bolivia, most gold is extracted by cooperatives, which have gained regulatory advantages but face issues like low wages and unsafe conditions. Since a 2015 import ban from Peru, Bolivia’s mercury imports surged, making it the world’s second-largest importer. This increase indicates potential informal mercury in Bolivia trade and higher gold extraction. Most imports come from Mexico and enter Bolivia mainly by land, with over 90% arriving in the La Paz-El Alto area.
This report is in English, but we will publish it soon in Spanish by our website.
