Environment Ministry Announces Tough Measures Against Polluters Of Rivers

The Ministerio de Ambiente, Energía y Telecomunicaciones (Minaet) announced an initiative to fine polluters of rivers beginning Jun 1. Rene Castro, the environment minister, said the initiative also applies to companies discharging sewage.

An analysis released by the Universidad Nacional (UNA) - National University - found that in 13 out of the 18 sites where samples were collected from rivers and sreams, water pollution endangered the lives of people. The study was prepared by the Laboratorio de Análisis Ambiental, noting that the worst problem is the discharge of raw sewage.

The dumping is being made by both industry and residences. One of the most serious findings is the finding of heavy metals in the mouth of the Rios Grande de Tarcoles and into the Gulf of Nicoya. Another study by the Laboratorio Nacional de Aguas del Instituto de Acueductos y Alcantarillados (AyA) detected on the basis of 2.800 samples, there is fecal waste in the mouths of rivers and estuaries.

The report reveals more fecal coliforms per 100 millitres of water exceeding the amount scientifically considered normal. The province with the highest contamination levels was Limón. The Tarcoles river is recognized on a regional level and not for its cleanliness, but rather as the most polluted river in Central America.

It is unclear the amount of the fines to be levied on polluters, but is expected to be several times the base salary. The idea is to the gradual cleanup of the environment by creating a culture among the younger population on the importance of protecting the rivers and streams.