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Argentina’s Blood-Red Canal: A Dire Reminder of Industrial Pollution
A shocking sight has left residents of Avellaneda, Argentina, deeply concerned—the Sarandí Canal has turned a startling blood-red color, raising alarms about severe water pollution. The canal, which flows into the Río de la Plata, was first observed with its eerie hue on February 6, 2025, accompanied by a strong, foul odor.
Investigations suggest the discoloration may be due to chemical pollutants, likely from nearby factories and tanneries. Some reports speculate that textile dye or toxic waste, such as aniline—a hazardous substance used in dyes—could be responsible. This isn’t an isolated case. The Sarandí Canal has previously turned green, violet, and bluish, pointing to a long history of industrial contamination ( NY Times , India TV News ).
The fashion industry, particularly leather production—both real and synthetic—contributes significantly to water pollution. PU leather (polyurethane-based synthetic leather), often marketed as “vegan,” may avoid animal cruelty, but it releases microplastics and toxins into waterways. Studies indicate that synthetic leather production generates over 3 million tons of microplastic pollution annually ( BBC ). Meanwhile, real leather processing is responsible for up to 90% of water pollution in tannery-heavy regions like Kanpur, India ( NDTV ).
The Sarandí Canal disaster is yet another reminder that our consumption choices have direct environmental consequences. At Vyakti India, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a movement. Our plant-based vegan leather accessories offer a genuine alternative to both PU and animal leather, reducing pollution while preserving craftsmanship and heritage. If we truly want to prevent more “rivers of blood,” we must shift toward ethical, sustainable materials. Let’s rewrite the future—one conscious choice at a time.