From Extraction to Knowledge: Tackling Illegal Mining in Ecuador through Science and Indigenous Leadership - LCAW2026
How can science and Indigenous leadership help improve understanding of illegal mining and inform more effective responses in the Amazon?
Illegal mining is one of the most significant threats to forests, freshwater ecosystems, biodiversity, and Indigenous territories across the Amazon Basin. In Ecuador, its rapid expansion is driving deforestation, river contamination, and social conflict, while creating complex challenges for environmental governance and territorial management.
Join Indigenous leaders, researchers, and conservation practitioners for a discussion on how scientific research, geospatial monitoring, community-based observations, and Indigenous knowledge can contribute to understanding illegal mining and informing more effective responses.
Topics will include:
Environmental and social impacts of illegal mining in Ecuador
Emerging evidence and monitoring efforts in the Amazon
Indigenous leadership and community-based monitoring
The role of science and geospatial technologies in understanding illegal mining activities
Opportunities for collaboration among researchers, Indigenous organizations, NGOs, and policymakers
Speakers
Dr. Doreen Monta, Queen Mary University of London
Jorge Villa, EcoCiencia
Dr. Santiago Garcia, Environmental Defense Fund
Dr. Richard Stedman, Cornell University
Fermin Chimatani Tayori, President of ANECAP
Audience
This event is intended for researchers, Indigenous and local community organizations, environmental practitioners, policymakers, students, and others interested in the intersection of climate, biodiversity, environmental governance, and Indigenous leadership.
Format
Panel discussion followed by audience Q&A.
🌐 Interpretation: English • Español
Light refreshments and snacks will be available.
If you have questions, please email [email protected]
📍 Joseph Rotblat Building