Saving a dying river

For Dario Iza Pilaquinga, president of the Kitu Kara Indigenous people in Ecuador, nature is much more than just a legal idea. He sees it as a living being. This belief inspires his efforts to protect the Machangara River, which runs through Quito.

When he was a child, he saw rivers that were vibrant and clear. But in the Ecuadorian capital, he found a waterway so polluted it barely resembled a river. Industrial waste has left it with an oxygen level of only 2%, making it dangerous for people and animals.

In May 2024, the Kitu Kara people, with support from scientists like Blanca Rios Touma and local groups, sued the city and won. The court ordered the restoration of the river, but an appeal is underway.

Recognizing the rights of nature

Since 2008, Ecuador has recognized the rights of nature in its constitution, making it a global pioneer. Other countries, including Bolivia, India and Spain, have followed this example.

Still, putting these rights into practice is not easy. The Machangara case shows how important scientific data, political will and community involvement are.

Ramiro Avila, a former constitutional judge and now a lawyer, said holding corporations accountable is the biggest challenge. Even so, examples from India and Ecuador show that simple, affordable solutions like local water treatment and public education can help.

From spirituality to systemic change

Recognizing nature's rights is important, but it's only the beginning. Dario Iza combines legal work with spiritual knowledge and Indigenous tradition. He views Earth as a living being, with rivers as its veins and the moon guiding life's rhythm.

When Indigenous communities like the Kitu Kara speak up and share their wisdom, there is hope. Lasting protection for nature, though, will require everyone — politicians, scientists, and society — working together.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.