Summary
A protection action was made in 2019 to address the contamination of rivers in the canton, air, and the effects on the health and quality of life of the inhabitants. The plaintiffs cited Ecuador’s constitutional law protecting rights of nature and environmental rights. Based on the reports delivered and the evidence provided by the plaintiff, the judge found that the discharge of rainwater and wastewater from the canton and a notable bad smell in the environment is harmful. The judge ruled the test showed that the environment is contaminated and ruled the Autonomous Municipal Government of the Cantón Flavio Alfaro and SENAGUA must provide certain evidence that it does not affect affect the environment. However the contamination has persisted as of 2020.