Indigenous groups close Curaray River amid mining concerns; Guatemala landfill closure nears

In Peru, the Federation of Native Communities of the Curaray (FECONCU) has announced the total closure of the Curaray River starting August 25, 2026. This decision is a defensive measure against illegal mining in the basin, which the federation claims threatens natural resources, water quality, aquatic fauna, and the health and food security of indigenous communities. FECONCU has called upon the Peruvian National Police, the Navy, and environmental prosecutors to conduct interdiction and protection operations due to what they describe as insufficient state presence.

In Guatemala, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Marn) is evaluating the upcoming August 31 closure of the Amsa landfill. While technical studies have been submitted to request a two-year extension, the ministry has not yet reached a decision. Authorities emphasized that local municipalities remain responsible for waste management and must identify new disposal sites or recycling processes. Options under consideration include a gradual closure process to maintain the stability of the site.