Stopping a Peruvian Smelter from Emitting Toxic Pollutants

The people—especially the children—of La Oroya in the Peruvian Andes, suffer terrible health effects from air pollution emitted by a lead smelter operated by an American company.

Clients

Interamerican Association for Environmental Defense (AIDA)Peruvian Society for Environmental Law (SPDA)

Attorneys

Anna Cederstav

Regional Office / Program

International Program

Case Overview

The Interamerican Commission on Human Rights, prompted by Earthjustice and its partner AIDA, has repeatedly urged the Peruvian government to come to the rescue of the people—especially the children—of La Oroya in the Peruvian Andes, who suffer terrible health effects from air pollution emitted by a lead smelter operated by an American company.

In fact, the groups first went to the Peruvian courts and secured an order for medical treatment for the victims, but the Peruvian health ministry ignored the court order. It has also ignored requests from the human rights commission.

The effort to rescue the people of La Oroya continues.

Doe Run Peru’s smelter emits such enormous quantities of pollution that many residents suffer from chronic respiratory illnesses and nearly all the children in the city have lead poisoning.

La Oroya is one of the most contaminated cities on the planet. Doe Run Peru’s smelter emits such enormous quantities of pollution that many residents suffer from chronic respiratory illnesses and nearly all the children in the city have lead poisoning. (Photo courtesy of AIDA)

Case Updates

A large industrial facility and smoke stack in the foreground with a collection of smaller homes and buildings near it.

June 20, 2024 From the Experts: Victory

La Oroya v. Peru: Historic Precedent on Human Rights and the Environment

The Inter-American Court of Human Rights set an important precedent for state oversight of industrial pollution.

April 16, 2024 In the News: Context

Peru pollution ruling a ‘gigantic step’ for environmental justice

Jacob Kopas, Attorney, International Program: “This case is the first time that the court is … really recognising a connection between the health of an environment and the health of human communities. Now with this precedent, we can point to it and say yes you have access to justice – this has been recognised as a human rights violation.”