Peru: Protect thousands of families at risk from toxic metals
What would you do if you found out that you and your family have toxic metals in your blood, that could damage your organs and cause cancer?
Would you stay quiet or would you do everything you can to protect your health and that of your loved ones?
Gerson, Hermelinda and Ceferino too. They and thousands of women, men, children, and children living in 11 communities within the Espinar mining area, in Southern Peru, are at the epicentre of a toxic metals health crisis and need your help.
They need their government to act decisively and put an end to this crisis. Otherwise, they could die and their communities could disappear.
Take ActionTAKE ACTION TODAY
THE PROBLEM
The Peruvian government is neglecting the health of hundreds of Indigenous people whose only sources of water are contaminated by toxic metals and who lack access to adequate health care, Amnesty International said in a new investigation published today.
WHY YOU ?
So far, authorities have ignored this crisis and have not done enough. However, a court recently ordered the government to implement an emergency public and environmental health strategy for Espinar. This is the best opportunity to protect the lives and health of thousands of families at risk.
You can change this story. With your help, the communities of Espinar can have a healthy life and build a better future. Together we can heal Espinar!
Things you can do
Sign the Petition
It’s high time we transformed how we live, work and interact with our planet. Send your recommendations to the government to adopt a earth recovery plan and move #TowardsBetter.
Read the Earth Watch Corps Recommendations
The lack of monitoring of victims' health and the identification and treatment of long-term health risks has denied the population a significant and vital aspect of their right to health. The population of Espinar has the right to know whether exposure to toxic metals and substances could cause long-term health problems and, if so, what they are and how they can be treated.
Voice Your Support
Citizens across the country are rising up to demand a safe and healthy future. Make your voice heard and together we can move #TowardsBetter.