Groundwater in Mexico's Yucatan found contaminated with faecal waste from farms
A Greenpeace study shows that wells and cenotes across Yucatan state are polluted with faecal bacteria, likely from nearby pig farms and municipal sewage.
Greenpeace commissioned an independent laboratory to analyse water from 17 sites, including household wells, community taps and natural sinkholes, in Yucatan state. Results showed that 16 samples hit the upper limit for total coliforms and 13 for faecal coliforms, indicating widespread contamination. Specialized testing identified pig-derived DNA, implicating the region's more than 500 industrial pig farms.
The organization demands a moratorium on further livestock expansion, citing the porous limestone that quickly transmits pollutants to the sole freshwater source. Maya groups and local activists have pressed authorities for action, while the Yucatan Citizen Scientific Water Observatory’s vice president defended the pork sector and blamed political inertia. State officials and the national water commission have not responded to requests for comment.
Why it matters
Contaminated groundwater threatens drinking water safety for millions in Yucatan, a region without surface rivers.
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