⚠️Mercury is crucial for small-scale gold mining in South America, but its health and environmental impact is a growing concern.
💰The prohibition of mercury puts economies reliant on gold mining at risk of collapse.
⛏️Guyana serves as a major hub for smuggling mercury into neighboring countries.
🚫Mercury can have devastating health effects, particularly on the neurological system.
💸The illegal trade of mercury is a multi-million dollar industry, often associated with other illicit activities.
What is the impact of mercury on health?
—Mercury can affect the neurological system, muscles, liver, and urinary system. Prolonged exposure can have severe health consequences.
Why is mercury smuggling prevalent in Guyana?
—Guyana is one of the few countries still legally importing mercury, making it a hotspot for smuggling into neighboring countries.
What are the consequences of the prohibition of mercury?
—The prohibition of mercury puts economies reliant on gold mining at risk of collapse, impacting the livelihoods of miners and communities.
How does the illegal mercury trade impact the environment?
—Illegal mercury trade contributes to environmental pollution and degradation in the Amazon region.
What are the long-term implications of mercury use?
—The long-term use of mercury can lead to severe health issues and the contamination of ecosystems.
00:24Mercury is crucial to small-scale gold mining in South America.
01:31The prohibition of mercury puts economies reliant on gold mining at risk.
01:43Guyana serves as a major hub for smuggling mercury.
05:53Mercury can have devastating health effects, particularly on the neurological system.
08:20The illegal trade of mercury is a multi-million dollar industry.
