Identification of POPs pollution sources using a participatory approach in Eastern Morelos, Mexico.
This report highlights a research project conducted in the Eastern region of Morales, Mexico which identifies possible sources of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD and PCDF). The activity consisted of information gathering workshops, which were held with local teachers, students, peasants and citizens to learn more about the problems firsthand. The workshops resulted in identification and mapping of several possible focal points of contamination and several notable observations. Multiple sites were visited, including: Cuautla and Yecapixtla sanitary landfills (where mixed chemical wastes were observed); brick-making kilns (where old tires and used oils were in some instances used as fuel); and crop fields (where agrochemical containers were abandoned and burned). Visits to a sugar refinery, tannery, a biological-infectious hazardous waste collection company, mechanic shops and an electric transformer repair shop were also conducted. The results and findings are outlined in a 22-page report.
Outputs:
Three community workshops in the Eastern Region of Morales, Mexico
Two college students trained to replicate the workshops in schools and communities
Site visits and mapping of potentially contaminated sites
Development of community brochure, poster and fact sheet on POPs
Media coverage by radio and print media