The expertise of the Andean Node is heavy metals and mining and our activities are coordinated through the Foundation for health, environment and work (FUNSAD) in Ecuador. Researchers, decision makers, network coordinators and professors from Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia participate in the activities of the Andean Node.

Mining and heavy metals
Natural resources support the economies of Andean countries, representing approximately 20% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and between 40 and 50% of total export earnings. Furthermore, this region is one of the principal expansion areas of artisanal gold mining. Studies suggest that 700,000 persons depend on this activity and approximately 260,000 adolescents and children are or will be part of this activity. But, artisanal mining is responsible for the release of enormous quantities of heavy metals, causing serious contamination and deleterious effects on humans and the environment.

Significant levels of mercury, lead and manganese in sediments and particles in suspension in mining zones have been reported in Ecuador, while in Peru, lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury were reported in water, soil and crops near mining tailings. In La Oroya City (Peru) there is heavy environmental pollution from lead mining and smelting. Blood lead levels in pregnant workers and children are as high as 40ug/dl. This situation had mobilized the native communities and peasant organizations in all of the Andean countries.

Because of the financial difficulties and structural situation in many universities of this region, much research is carried out by NGO’s, with limited access to scientific resources. Despite this limitation, these groups are doing pioneering work, most often in close collaboration with indigenous, non-indigenous and women’s groups. This is one of the reasons that the Andean Centre of Excellence is located at FUNSAD in Ecuador, a group doing research and engaged in policy interventions on the impact of mining on workers and communities, in partnership with indigenous and peasant groups. The coordinating activities of the Andean Node are carried out in collaboration with the National Institute for prevention, health and security in the work place (INPSASEL), Venezuela. Both of these groups are working to bring about a clearer understanding of the links between NGOs, policy decisions, economics and human health, particularly in the area of mining, but also with respect to gender issues.