The Examination’s investigation into the lead recycling industry has uncovered alarming evidence of its health and environmental consequences. Reporting on the impact of U.S. car battery recycling operations in Nigeria, the outlet found that children in the region are suffering from dangerously high lead levels, with some children exhibiting symptoms of lifelong brain damage. The study, which involved testing children’s blood for lead, shows a direct correlation between exposure to lead during recycling processes and severe neurological impairments.
Workers at the recycling facilities also reported significant health problems, including respiratory issues and coughing up black dust, which is a sign of lead and other heavy metal exposure. These symptoms have raised concerns about the safety of the recycling process and the risk of long-term health damage among both workers and nearby communities. The findings call for stricter regulations and better safety measures to protect those working in the lead recycling industry, as well as the communities living around these facilities.