In the dense rainforests of the Amazon, a silent and hazardous occupation thrives—gold dredging.
This job, while offering the allure of riches, exposes gold dredgers to huge risks.
The gold divers spend hours in the murky waters of the enormous river, facing unknown dangers and relying entirely on primitive machinery to make sure they have air.
From environmental devastation to serious health hazards, the life of an Amazon gold dredger is fraught with danger.
A lot of the work is illegal, which leads to bosses being ruthless over any problems they have with their staff.
The explorer Ed Stafford shone a light on the industry in his documentary show "Into the Unknown".
He spent time with a team of dredgers on the world-famous river.
One of the more harrowing moments came when the divers told him if they didn't come back up they'd simply be left.
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Health Risks
Mercury Exposure: The use of mercury in extracting gold is a primary health concern.
This toxic element can cause debilitating neurological and respiratory problems, and prolonged exposure may lead to mercury poisoning, manifesting as tremors, memory loss, and cognitive issues.
Infectious Diseases: The remote, often unhygienic mining camps are breeding grounds for diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
The lack of sanitation and proximity to stagnant waters increase the risk of waterborne illnesses.
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Safety Hazards
The nature of dredging, involving heavy machinery and operations in unstable terrains, often underwater, significantly increases the risk of accidents.
Dredgers face the constant threat of equipment failure, drowning, and landslides.
Lack of help
The remoteness of these sites means that access to emergency medical services is severely limited, turning minor injuries into potentially life-threatening situations.
Environmental Hazards
Hazardous Working Conditions: Environmental destruction due to dredging activities leads to unstable and dangerous working environments.
Exposure to Pollutants: Dredgers are not only exposed to mercury but also to a range of other pollutants and toxins present in mining areas.
Legal Problems
Illegal Operations: Many dredging operations are conducted illegally, placing workers at risk of legal repercussions.
Vulnerable Employment: Working in the informal sector often means lack of legal employment protections, leading to exploitation and unfair labor practices.
The sector is also notorious for exploitative practices, including the use of child labor and conditions resembling forced labor.
The intense competition for resources can lead to conflicts, sometimes escalating into violence.
Psychological Stress
Uncertain Income: The unpredictability of gold yields and fluctuating market prices contribute to financial instability and stress.
Isolation and Mental Health: The isolated nature of the work and the high-stress environment can adversely affect mental health, leading to long-term psychological issues.
The world of gold dredging in the Amazon is a complex one, blending the allure of potential riches with the stark reality of the risks involved.
It's a world where the pursuit of gold comes at a high price, not just for those who delve into its depths but also for the environment and the communities that surround it.
As the world becomes increasingly aware of these risks, the future of gold dredging in the Amazon remains uncertain, balanced precariously between economic gain and the preservation of health, environment, and human rights.
