Utah Valley University scientists fight against water contamination in Peru

UTAH COUNTY, Utah (ABC4) — Several of Utah Valley University’s faculty members are working on a clean-water initiative in Peru, with extensive testing of water sources.

Utah Valley University (UVU) faculty members have been conducting water-testing throughout Peru, identifying major contamination issues. Their findings indicate that toxic elements may be present in both water and food sources.

Utah Valley University has previously conducted a multi-disciplinary research project on Utah Lake’s water quality, pollution impacts, and sustainability. Those findings were presented to Peruvian Congressional leaders, who helped form a collaboration between UVU and Peruvian university leaders.

Between 2024 and today, UVU biologist Dr. Lauren Brooks and other UVU faculty members conducted water-testing in vulnerable communities in Peru. Dr. Brooks found that water collected remained contaminated with human fecal matter after sterilization.

She said, “Even after rigorous sanitation, the water was still unsafe. And this is water people are using to cook, clean, and drink every day.” Those findings were reportedly corroborated by Peru’s local leaders, including school administrators that report 60% of their students have regular digestive issues.

UVU faculty test Peruvian water sources and present their findings to Peruvian officials. (Courtesy: Utah Valley University)

UVU water testing identified trace metals, arsenic, microplastics, and bacteria in Peruvian water sources commonly used for drinking, cooking, and bathing. Additionally, toxic elements were found in both farmed and wild freshwater fish.

Dr. Baldomero Lago, head of Utah Valley University’s UNESCO chair, hopes that the results of water testing may lead to long-term policy changes regarding chemical discharge and water regulations. UVU faculty and Peruvian leaders plan to present their findings to the Peruvian congress later this year and meet with other community leaders.

They have discussed a variety of solutions including community education programs, water treatment reforms, algae harvesting programs, and faculty training on pre-existing water testing equipment. However, Dr. Lago noted, “We don’t force implementation. We’re an academic institution. That is why people trust us.”

The study findings may carry global implications, as this project is part of Utah Valley University UNESCO’s larger goal to further initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda and clean water goals.

Dr. Lago says, ““This is engaged learning on a global scale. We’re helping communities understand the threats they face. We’re giving them the tools to advocate for change.”