Cerro de Pasco, a mining city in central Peru situated at an altitude of approximately 4,330 meters, has been a center of mining activities since the 17th century. Rich in mineral resources such as silver, lead, copper, and zinc, the region has historically played a vital role in Peru’s economy. However, centuries of mining have led to severe environmental pollution, resulting in serious soil and water contamination. According to research by the Center for Climate Crime Analysis (CCCA), heavy metal contamination has significantly impacted the health of local residents, underscoring the urgent need for environmental restoration.
In response, on January 26, ASEZ university student volunteers gathered in the Yanacancha District of Pasco Province to conduct environmental cleanup activities. This initiative was part of the “Earth Recovery Project,” aimed at mitigating the effects of extensive mining and promoting the well-being of local communities. In collaboration with the provincial government, ASEZ members collected waste around public squares and led cleanup campaigns to raise awareness of environmental protection.
Subsequently, on January 30, Juan Luis Chombo Heredia, Governor of the Pasco region, officially expressed his support for ASEZ’s “Earth Recovery Project” and its “Reduce Crime Together” (RCT) initiative. Encouraging ASEZ’s continued efforts, the governor stated, “I will continuously support activities aimed at restoring the environment and fostering a safer community in the Cerro de Pasco region.”
On the same day, ASEZ officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the provincial government to collaborate on the “Earth Recovery Project.” Through this agreement, ASEZ will continue its environmental protection efforts in the region, working alongside the government to implement various projects aimed at cleaning polluted areas and improving the local environment.
Lee Min-woo, an ASEZ member who participated in the project, shared his experience: “Working in Peru was challenging at times due to the high altitude, which was a first-time experience for me. However, seeing so many people support and cheer us on made it incredibly rewarding. I look forward to continuing our efforts to create a better environment in cooperation with local communities.”
ASEZ plans to expand its environmental protection initiatives beyond Peru, leading efforts worldwide to create a cleaner and healthier planet.