In El Oro province, many small businesses are facing severe challenges due to the recent suspension of mining activities ordered by the government. This decision was prompted by alarming levels of pollutants such as cyanide and lead found in local rivers, which resulted in the halt of operations across 54 out of 105 processing plants in the area. Local store owners like Carlos, who has depended on his business for over 30 years, are now confronted with the stark reality of dwindling revenues, compelling them to consider shutting down their operations once more, a situation reminiscent of the pandemic's peak.

The government's decision to suspend activities came about due to public health and environmental concerns, as contamination levels from mining operations became untenable. This suspension affects not only the mining companies but also the entire local economy, as evidenced by small business owners struggling to make ends meet. With most activities at a standstill, the economic ripple effects are being felt deeply, putting pressure on local businesses that depend on daily transactions stemming from mining-related activities.

As the government explores solutions to mitigate these environmental issues, there is uncertainty about when or if mining operations will resume, leaving many small business owners to find ways to navigate a landscape significantly altered by environmental regulations. This situation underscores the interdependency of mining operations on the local economy and raises urgent questions about balancing environmental protection with livelihood sustenance.