Ancient Maya Sites Were Heavily Polluted by Mercury

New research shows that the ancient Maya people accidentally poisoned their own environment with mercury for hundreds of years.

A new study reveals that the ancient Maya people had a hidden problem. For centuries, their cities were leaking mercury into the environment. Mercury is a heavy metal that is toxic to humans and animals. The Maya people loved to use a bright red pigment. They used it to decorate buildings, caves, and even their own bodies. This paint was made using a mineral called cinnabar, which is rich in mercury. Over time, the mercury from this paint washed away into the soil and the water. Rain would wash the dust from buildings and paved areas into nearby lakes and ponds. Researchers tested the soil…