Destruction of Water Security and Mining in Southern Peru: An Attack on Future Generations?

Abstract

Droughts in the Andes have increased in frequency in recent years, causing the loss of rivers, lakes and lagoons due to high daytime temperatures, especially in non-rainy seasons. Lake Titicaca, considered the highest navigable lake in the world, has retreated hundreds of meters, reaching alarming levels and losing more than 75 cm of its level. This decrease in Andean glaciers affects the water security of the population on the Pacific coast, the Andes and the Amazon.

In contrast, the national population, affected by an educational system lacking a future perspective, avoids discussion and concern for vital strategic resources such as freshwater reserves in glaciers, biodiversity conservation and the sustainability of agricultural soils. Geospatial monitoring and analysis of the two most important glacier systems in southern Peru, using satellite images and the cadastre of extractive activities, reveal a systematic destruction of water security in the region.

Despite the growing concern expressed in recent years by the population, the media and governmental institutions regarding the persistent droughts in the Andes, there is a lack of awareness of the human activities permitted by the State and the private sector in relation to glaciers. Consequently, it is concluded that national policies and regulations related to the management and use of essential resources, such as freshwater reserves (glaciers), must undergo urgent changes. At this juncture, the responsibility to preserve these freshwater reserves in glaciers urges younger generations not to allow their interests to be undermined. Ultimately, knowledge production strategies with a strong emphasis on local valuation and integration of science, policy and community are required to develop robust advocacy, conservation, adaptation, locally tailored and transformative approaches.