Residents of As Conchas Take the Xunta De Galicia to Court for Allowing Animal Farms to Pollute Local Reservoir

Residents of As Conchas in the Ourense region of A Limia have filed a lawsuit against the Xunta De Galicia and other public administrations for allowing industrial animal farms to contaminate the local reservoir. The legal action, supported by environmental organizations, is the first in Europe to evaluate the impact of intensive animal farming on water resources from a human rights perspective. Scientific studies have revealed high levels of nitrates and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in water sources due to improper management of animal waste, posing health risks such as cancer and blood disorders. Despite concerns raised by residents and environmental groups, authorities continue to authorize these farms.

Residents have been living with water pollution and the stench of slurry for over two decades, with nearly two million animals being raised in the region, putting unsustainable environmental pressure on the area. Local authorities claim the water is safe, but medical reports advise against consuming it, citing health risks. The lawsuit aims to hold authorities accountable for failing to protect citizens from the harmful effects of industrial livestock farming on water resources and public health.