Faecal waste pollutes drinking water in Mexico’s Yucatan, Greenpeace says
Summary
A Greenpeace report found that drinking water in Mexico’s Yucatan state is polluted by faecal bacteria. The contamination likely comes from pig farms and sewage, affecting wells and natural sinkholes that supply water to local communities.Key Facts
- Greenpeace tested water from 17 sites near Merida, including wells and cenotes (natural sinkholes).
- Most samples showed faecal bacteria contamination, with pig-specific markers found in some.
- Yucatan has over 500 industrial pig farms housing more than 50,000 pigs, many near Indigenous lands.
- The region’s porous limestone allows pollutants to quickly enter groundwater, the only freshwater source.
- A UN report noted many farms lack permits and government actions are insufficient to control pollution.
- Local pig industry leaders say they invest in water treatment but blame government inaction.
- Indigenous communities and Greenpeace are calling on authorities to address the pollution problem urgently.
- State and national water officials did not respond to requests for comment.
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