www.GlobalWitness.org
The rural community of Patio Bonito, near Barrancabermeja in Colombia, suffers from pollution caused by a landfill established in 2015. The landfill is currently operated by French company Veolia, but a report from human rights group Global Witness suggests that corporate mismanagement, both by the previous operator Rediba and Veolia, contributed to the contamination. The landfill has led to environmental damage, affecting water, food sources, and marine ecosystems, as well as causing health issues among residents.
Global Witness urges Veolia to take urgent action to address the harms suffered by the community and environmental defenders who have spoken out against the landfill. Community concerns include documented die-offs of fish and wildlife, as well as health impacts on residents. Reports suggest a link between the landfill and rare birth defects and skin conditions among children in the area.
Veolia denies disregarding environmental laws and claims to operate with respect for human rights and environmental regulations. Despite the threats and challenges faced by activists and community members, some individuals remain determined to continue advocating for nature protection and human rights.