The Ecuadorian government has announced the suspension of all mining activities in Napo province and restricted operations at processing plants in El Oro and Loja. The decision, made by the Ministry of Environment and Energy on February 2, aims to address environmental damage caused by illegal mineral extraction in both the Amazon region and southern parts of the country.
This measure follows technical reports that indicate negative impacts on sensitive ecosystems and water sources due to unauthorized mining activities. The government’s resolution is based on precautionary principles and its responsibility to protect nature, water resources, and community health.
“The illegal mining industry is a direct threat to our rivers, forests, and the lives of Amazonian communities. Heavy metals such as copper, lead, arsenic, cadmium, as well as cyanide have been detected above permissible limits in the Calera and Amarillo rivers within the Puyango-Tumbes watershed. For this reason, we will not allow clandestine activities to continue destroying natural heritage in the Amazon and southern Ecuador,” said Inés Manzano Díaz, Minister of Environment and Energy.
As part of the response, immediate inspections will be carried out along with administrative procedures for sanctions. These actions are coordinated with ARCOM (the Agency for Regulation and Control of Mining) and law enforcement authorities. The efforts are intended to stop illegal mining operations, seize machinery and minerals obtained unlawfully, and prevent further environmental harm.
Additionally, regional offices will begin sanction proceedings against operators found violating current environmental or water regulations. This process seeks to limit further environmental impact from mining.
Minister Manzano stressed that beyond halting illegal activity, another goal is ecosystem restoration and ensuring clean water access for affected communities. “What we do today is done to defend the Amazon region and the country’s future. We will act firmly with no setbacks and within legal boundaries,” she stated.
The national government reaffirmed its commitment to combat illegal mineral extraction through strengthened state control measures, increased environmental oversight, interagency coordination, protection of nature, and respect for local populations.
The full resolution can be accessed at https://www.ambienteyenergia.gob.ec/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/MAE-MAE-2026-0005-RM.pdf
