Cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) poses significant environmental and social challenges that need to be addressed for sustainable practices. The key points are:
The DRC accounts for over 60% of global cobalt production, with a substantial portion (15-20%) extracted through artisanal mining. Artisanal mining often lacks proper safety measures, leading to environmental degradation and human health hazards like exposure to toxic metals and occupational accidents.
Studies have found elevated levels of cobalt in the urine and blood of people living near artisanal mining areas, especially children who also showed signs of oxidative DNA damage. Mining activities contaminate water sources, soil, and air with heavy metals and dust particles.
While industrial mining is often viewed as more sustainable, it also contributes to severe environmental pollution in the region. A systematic evaluation of the impacts of both artisanal and industrial mining is needed.
Sustainable practices being explored include formalizing the artisanal mining sector through bottom-up approaches focused on improving livelihoods, working conditions, and transparent supply chains. Technological innovations like increased automation, sustainable mining techniques, and better recycling methods can also reduce environmental harm.
However, addressing the root causes of unsustainable practices requires tackling broader socio-economic issues like poverty, lack of economic opportunities, weak governance, and corruption in the DRC. A holistic approach involving all stakeholders is crucial for achieving a sustainable cobalt supply chain.
“Keep liabilities and expenses down so more money is available to continue pouring into the asset column. Soon the asset base will be so deep that you can afford to look at more speculative investments: investments that may have returns of 100 percent to infinity; $5,000 investments that are soon turned into $1 million or more; investments that the middle class calls “too risky.” The investment is not risky for the financially literate.” – ROBERT T. KIYOSAKI’S ‘RICH DAD POOR DAD’
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Reviewed By: Nana K. Acheampong | Founder Of En Route Investors
TAGS: ERI, En Route Investors, ERIOB2, Cobalt Mining, DRC, The Congo Region, Future Sustainability, June, International, Canada, GTA, Greater Toronto Area, Vaughan, Ontario
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