SOS Orinoco Demands Government Set Date for UNESCO Mission to Canaima Amidst Severe Damage from Illegal Mining

Environmental group SOS Orinoco has demanded the Venezuelan government set a date for a UNESCO mission to assess the severe damage inflicted upon Canaima National Park. The organization denounced the "ecological collapse" occurring within the natural heritage site, attributing the crisis to rampant illegal mining and mercury contamination. SOS Orinoco criticized the authorities for their inaction in addressing the escalating environmental destruction.

The group's statement emphasized the urgent need for international intervention to protect the park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its unique tepui plateaus and Angel Falls. The ongoing illegal mining operations, particularly for gold, have led to widespread deforestation and pollution of rivers, threatening the delicate ecosystem and the indigenous communities that inhabit the region.

SOS Orinoco's call underscores the growing concern over the environmental impact of illicit activities in protected areas across Venezuela. The lack of effective government oversight and enforcement has allowed these destructive practices to persist, jeopardizing invaluable natural resources and cultural heritage.

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ecological collapse