Most people think recycling is always a good thing as it helps reduce waste and can be good for the environment. Well, a recent investigation by the New York Times and The Examination found that one particular type of recycling, old car batteries, are hurts people in developing countries.
The investigation looked at “lead recycling plants” in nations like Nigeria. These plants take old car batteries and melt them down so the lead could be used again. Even though this is good because it recycles some materials, it can also bring dangerous lead dust into the air and soil. According to the report from the New York Times, people who live near some of these recycling plants could or already have been exposed to dangerous amounts of lead.
Lead can be very dangerous especially for children as it can cause health problems particularly to a developing child’s brain. The investigation found that some children living near the recycling plants had a considerable amount of lead in their bodies.
The investigation showcasing research and data analysis from Fernanda Aguirre, Romina Colman, and Mago Torres found that, “Nearly all of the lead recycled in Africa is used to make electrode plates for batteries.”
Because lead from various sources is combined during manufacturing, it is impossible for consumers to know the origin of the lead in their car batteries. This means that people buying a car battery have no way of knowing where the lead inside it came from.
Many people believe companies should do more to make sure their products are being made safely.
Junior Daniel Reynoso also shared his thoughts.
“I think it’s very bad how car brands are doing this. It’s just causing more problems in the world that we don’t need,” he said.
Jessica Leon from the Finance Office agreed. “I think it’s horrible and they should be penalized,” she said.
This investigation shows that even things many use every day can affect people in other parts of the world. Many people believe recycling should help the environment without putting workers or children in danger.
