16Health The Health and Socioecological Dynamics of Mercury Exposure from Small-Scale Gold Mining in the Amazon Rainforest: Insights from Madre De Dios, Peru

Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) has surpassed fossil fuel combustion as the largest anthropogenic source of mercury (Hg) to the global atmosphere. ASGM is rapidly expanding in the region of Madre de Dios, Peru, which is a key biodiversity hotspot in the Amazon rainforest and home to over 35 Indigenous communities, several of which live in voluntary isolation. Prior research has found that, on average, Total mercury (THg) hair levels in the region exceed the World Health Organization’s reference level of 2.2 µg Hg/g hair, and that mercury levels are higher in those living in ASGM areas than non-ASGM areas. Regulation of ASGM and mercury use in the region has proven to be a significant challenge, with both legal and illegal operations contributing to mercury pollution. While health research on ASGM in the region often examines mercury exposure, these studies predominantly concentrate on identifying physical risk factors and measuring mercury levels in both human populations and the broader ecosystem. More research is needed to understand the complex socioecological dynamics that shape use and exposure.

This research employs a mixed-methods approach, utilizing qualitative data collection, visual analysis of high-resolution Planet-NICFI satellite imagery, and secondary health data to investigate ASGM expansion, mercury impacts, and potential solutions. The study leveraged secondary health and spatiotemporal data to identify Indigenous communities in and around ASGM hotspots and areas of expansion. These findings were triangulated with qualitative scoping data due to the fast-moving nature of ASGM in the region. Indigenous communities were selected for qualitative data collection because they are at the frontline of ASGM impacts, often experiencing significant ASGM within their territories and without their consent. The integration of their perspectives and knowledge into ASGM regulation efforts is essential and requires further research.

This study employed participant observation and semi-structured interviews (n = 35) with leaders and community members in two closely linked Indigenous communities within a key mining expansion area along the Madre de Dios river in July and August 2024. These ethnographic methods were used to capture physical and mental health experiences in relation to ASGM and perspectives on mercury and pollution. This presentation will share early findings on the disconnect between environmental and health education efforts to reduce mercury use and exposure and economic and cultural realities on the ground. It examines how the unique biological and physical properties of mercury, such as bioaccumulation within the body and gradual or delayed onset of symptoms, may contribute to the disconnect identified. Early research findings emphasize the need for co-developed solutions that involve local communities in decision-making processes to create interventions that are both effective and respectful of cultural contexts and realities. This presentation will also cover the importance of including and measuring Indigenous- and community-specific dimensions of health in future ASGM research in Madre de Dios and elsewhere.