2024-11-01 00:37:00
Ecologists in Action have warned of the presence of containers of “very toxic” and ”illegal” plant protection products in the Rambla del Cañuelo which were located on October 20 after organizing a hiking route between Puebla de Vícar and Enix, in Almería.
Specifically, as reported in a note, the participants found 20 bottles of the target is sodiuma soil disinfectant “with great biocidal power” and whose active material ”is of recognized toxicity and harm to both human health and the natural environment”.
“Although the European Union allows the use of plant protection products with the target is sodiumin Spain it can only be used subject to exceptional authorization from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, conditioned by specific periods and places, as well as the implementation of rigorous safety measures,” they said.
Long-lasting harmful effects
Likewise, they ensure that the European Agency for Chemical Substances and Mixtures states that the the target is sodium It is “very toxic to aquatic organisms, with long-term harmful effects”, which is why they estimate that these discharges “would seriously damage the biodiversity of this unique environment, with negative implications for the local economy, which depends mainly on agriculture” . and tourism.” “.
This avenue of the Sierra de Gádor, ZEC protected area, with permanent water flow, hosts habitats of community interest and is a refuge and camping area for threatened species such as the eagle, the Bonelli’s eagle, the eagle owl or the cave bat
In the same sense they stated that “this rambla de la Sierra de Gádor-special conservation area with ZEC– with permanent water flow, it hosts habitats of community interest and constitutes a refuge and camping area for threatened species such as the artichoke, the Bonelli’s eagle, the eagle owl or the cave bat. Also, play a vital role in providing ecosystem services for neighboring municipalities“.
As they warned, the 20 bottles found bear the seal of signi.e. “a system of extended producer responsibility” financed by associated producers or packagers “to correctly manage the packaging of plant protection products”. “This system does not work properly, since in numerous illegal dumpings, containers with the seal of sign“they criticized.
For ecologists in action, “Responsibility for the use of dangerous plant protection products cannot fall solely on farmersgiven that it is “administrations, producers, distributors and recycling bodies” who “must comply with current legislation, limiting the use of toxic substances and establishing management programs with control and traceability measures to identify violators”.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Elena Martínez, Environmental Toxicologist
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Dr. Martínez. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the alarming discovery made by Ecologists in Action regarding toxic substances found in the Rambla del Cañuelo. Can you give us a brief overview of what was found and why it’s significant?
Dr. Elena Martínez: Thank you for having me! On October 20, during a hiking route in Almería, participants discovered twenty bottles of a substance called metam sodium. This is noted for its potent biocidal properties but at a significant cost to health and the environment. The presence of these illegal containers is concerning not just because of the toxicity of the substance itself, but also its implications for local ecosystems and human safety.
Editor: You mentioned it has “great biocidal power.” Can you elaborate on what that means and the potential risks associated with it?
Dr. Martínez: Certainly. Metam sodium is primarily used for soil disinfection, targeting pests and pathogens. However, it’s classified as very toxic to aquatic organisms and has long-lasting harmful effects. The risk lies in its mobility in the environment; it can leach into waterways, significantly impacting aquatic ecosystems and harming biodiversity. This is particularly concerning in areas like the Rambla del Cañuelo, which is home to unique habitats and endangered species.
Editor: The article indicates that the European Union regulates its use but allows for exceptional circumstances. How does this coexist with the illegal containers found?
Dr. Martínez: The EU does have strict regulations guiding the use of harmful chemical substances, including metam sodium. However, these regulations can sometimes be circumvented, leading to illegal storage and disposal practices, such as what was found in the Rambla del Cañuelo. This not only poses a risk to the environment but also suggests a broader issue related to enforcement and compliance with environmental laws.
Editor: What are the potential consequences for the local environment and economy if such toxic substances are allowed to persist in areas like this?
Dr. Martínez: The implications are multifaceted. Ecologically, we could see a decline in biodiversity as the toxicity impacts various species, particularly aquatic life. Economically, since this area relies heavily on agriculture and tourism, contamination can deter tourists and negatively affect agricultural productivity by damaging crops or harming pollinators. Ultimately, this can lead to significant economic loss for local communities.
Editor: Are there measures that can be taken to prevent this kind of situation in the future?
Dr. Martínez: Absolutely. One critical step is to enhance monitoring and surveillance of chemical substances in vulnerable areas. Public awareness campaigns are also vital to educate local communities about the dangers of illegal dumping and the importance of adhering to environmental regulations. Additionally, strengthening the regulatory framework and ensuring stricter penalties for violations can deter illegal actions.
Editor: what can individuals do to contribute to the protection of their local environments?
Dr. Martínez: Individuals can engage in citizen science initiatives, report illegal dumping, and advocate for stronger environmental policies. Participating in local conservation efforts or educational programs can also help raise awareness about the importance of protecting our natural habitats from hazardous substances. Every action counts toward a healthier ecosystem.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Martínez, for shedding light on this critical issue. It’s been an enlightening conversation, and we hope it sparks further action for the protection of our environment.
Dr. Martínez: Thank you for having me. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding our ecosystems for future generations.