Fact Sheet - Mining and Ore Processing and Lead Pollution
Estimated Population at Risk at Identified Sites: 1.2 Million People*
Estimated Global Impact: 2 to 4 Million People*
What Is Mining and Ore Processing?
Large-scale mining and ore processing operations can be found throughout the world. Many large-scale mines have on-site or nearby ore processing facilities where extracted ore is sent for crushing, washing, and physical or chemical separation. Not all mined materials are dangerous, but many non-dangerous materials are found in rock that also contains heavy metals, which can be released during the ore extraction and processing. In addition to active mines, there are a large number of inactive and abandoned mining sites throughout the world that pose risks to local communities.
What Mining Processes Create Lead Pollution?
Lead is a heavy metal that occurs naturally in the earth’s crust, and is mined for use in a variety of materials including paint, ceramics glaze, batteries, and pipes. Lead also commonly exists in ore containing other frequently mined materials, such as iron, copper, silver, and zinc. When these metals are mined, lead can leach from the waste rock or can be spread as dust as the rock is crushed and ore is separated.
What Are the Human Exposure Pathways for Lead from Mining and Ore Processing?
Waste rock and tailings from mining and ore processing are not always stored or disposed of properly, and lead in this material can leach into the soil and nearby water systems, impacting agriculture and water resources. In some cases, waste and tailings are dumped out in the open and near residential areas. Because lead can be absorbed through dermal contact, this form of exposure is particularly dangerous for children.
What Are the Health Risks Associated with Lead?
The health effects of exposure to lead can be both acute and chronic, and the problems caused by lead poisoning are particularly dangerous and severe for children. Health problems associated with lead poisoning can include reduced I.Q., anemia, neurological damage, physical growth impairments, nerve disorders, pain and aching in muscles and bones, memory loss, kidney disorders, fatigue, and headaches. Exposure to high concentrations of lead can cause seizures, delirium, coma, and in some cases, death.
*Population estimates are preliminary and based on an ongoing global assessment of polluted sites.
