The environmental impact of copper production in the Colonial Michoacán

Abstract

The environmental impact of human activities has influenced the collapse of ancient societies such as the Maya and Teotihuacan, due to environmental changes. In Michoacán, copper smelting began in pre-Hispanic times, leaving effects on soil and vegetation, and during the colony, copper mining increased along with logging. This study analyzes the impact of mining in the pre-Hispanic and colonial periods, on the basis of historical documents and archaeological records. Although deforestation was not extensive, the local impact was significant, with metallurgical residues still affecting soil by heavy metals. The study highlights the importance of understanding the historical impact of human activities to assess their current effects and to stablish sustainable management strategies in the long term.