The hidden cost of buying gold | Claudia Vega
Rainforest toxicologist and TED Fellow Claudia Vega explains how artisanal gold mining in the Peruvian Amazon releases large amounts of mercury, causing severe environmental damage and public health risks locally and globally. She describes the mining process, mercury's toxic effects, and the massive deforestation in Madre de Dios, as well as her work establishing the first mercury lab in the Peruvian Amazon to generate local data for communities, policymakers, and international agreements. In conversation with TED Fellows Program Director Lily James Olds, she discusses working with indigenous communities, changing mining practices, the limits of "green" gold, the need for consumer awareness and traceability, and her fears about fake news and hope in small but real changes.
Short Stuff: La Lechuza - The Witch Owl
Hosts Josh and Chuck explore the legend of La Lechuza, a terrifying owl-woman figure from folklore along the Texas-Mexico border and other Spanish-speaking regions. They describe her appearance, behaviors, and various versions of the story, including how she lures or punishes people and her supposed connection to witchcraft or demonic forces. The discussion also covers possible pre-Columbian roots, how Christian influence may have transformed an older deity into a demon, modern gender-focused interpretations, and appearances of La Lechuza in pop culture and local hoaxes.