The price of gold has reached historic levels, fueling illegal mining in the Brazilian Amazon. This activity is causing severe deforestation and contaminating rivers with mercury, affecting Indigenous communities and the ecosystem.

Experts warn that, without regulation, illegal mining could devastate one of the most important rainforests on the planet. Environmental organizations have denounced the human and ecological impact, pressuring governments to take action against illegal miners.

In addition to environmental damage, illegal mining is linked to serious social problems, such as forced labor, child exploitation, and violence against Indigenous communities trying to protect their territories. Brazilian authorities have launched operations to curb this activity, but the problem persists due to high demand for gold in international markets.

As the price of gold continues to rise, the challenge lies in finding a balance between resource exploitation and environmental conservation. International cooperation and government commitment will be key to preventing the Amazon from continuing to lose hectares of forest at an alarming rate.