Authorities investigate illegal chemical operations and toxic exposure in Paraguay

Authorities in Paraguay have intervened at a suspected clandestine factory in the Nueva Bergthal colony, Paso Yobái district. The facility, which allegedly operated without environmental permits, was involved in producing liquid fertilizers, charcoal, and recycling agrochemical containers. During the inspection, officials discovered numerous agrochemical canisters exposed to the elements without proper containment systems.

Specialists from the Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development (MADES), the National Forestry Institute (INFONA), and SENAVE collected water, soil, and liquid residue samples for laboratory analysis to determine the extent of potential environmental contamination. The site was also found to be producing pyroligneous acid through wood combustion.

In a separate incident in Colonia Valdense, municipal workers were affected by inhaling toxic gases released from glyphosate containers. The exposure occurred when workers compressed chemical canisters that had been improperly disposed of in domestic waste containers. Local authorities have issued warnings to the community to prevent the disposal of chemical residues in standard trash to protect sanitation workers.