Peru attacks illegal mining ahead of climate talks

Peru first criminalized unlicensed gold mining in 2012 but only began enforcing the law vigorously this year with serious manpower and explosives. The operations have displaced thousands of the estimated 40,000 people who authorities say moved to the jungle to mine gold.

In addition to contributing to deforestation, which scientists blame for between 12 and 15 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, the illegal alluvial gold mining contaminates the jungle with tons of mercury.
http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/latest-news/ap/peru-attacks-illegal-mining-ahead-of-climate-talks/article_37f234c0-0c6a-57be-8386-ec496c07dae9.html