Lead management in low- and middle-income countries

Lead pollution and exposure is a topic that is drawing increasing attention from decision-makers globally. It was the subject of a recent G7 meeting and may appear on the agenda of the G20 under India's presidency. The topic is likely to gain further prominence as a key issue in the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management framework, as well as in the Science Policy Panel to further the sound management of chemicals and waste being organized by UNEP. The World Bank has announced that it is preparing a report that contains a new analysis of the health and economic toll from lead exposure, and has signalled that their estimates of both global mortalities and economic costs will be significantly higher than prior estimates. Given this increased interest in the subject and the fact that lead acid batteries are the primary industrial use for lead, ensuring the environmentally sound recycling of batteries will very likely be an issue of increasing visibility, interest, and scrutiny.

Drew McCartor, Executive Director of the non-profit Pure Earth, will provide an update on the latest knowledge and high-level political activities regarding lead pollution and exposure. Drew will share emerging trends and developments among private, public, and non-profit actors, as well as descriptions of concrete activities taking place around the globe to improve industrial practices, address historic problems, and ensure the sound management of lead in the future.