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Lead is a naturally occurring metal which finds its way into the environment in a variety of ways. It can enter the environment as a result of natural processes such as weathering of the earth's surface, or volcanic activity. It also enters the environment as a result of human activities such as the deterioration of lead based paint, burning of leaded gas in vehicles, industrial emissions, and the disposal of various wastes. Lead enters our bodies in the form of fine particles which are swallowed or inhaled. Young children are the most vulnerable as they tend to suck their fingers or objects which may be contaminated with dust containing lead particles. Young children absorb up to 50% of the lead that they ingest, as opposed to adult absorption of 10-15% of ingested lead. Lead exposure in pregnant women can cause premature birth, low birth weight or even abortion. Lead exposure in young children has been shown to result in decreased IQ's, slower growth rates, reading disorders, psychological disturbances, and hearing problems. Exposure to high levels of lead results in severe brain and kidney damage in both adults and children. Environment Canada estimates that six million used lead acid batteries are taken out of service each year in Canada alone. This is equivalent to 100,000 tonnes of batteries, containing 50,000 tonnes of lead. Learn more by reading this article on Battery Recycling in North America. The average lead acid battery is comprised of 17% metallic lead, 50% lead sulfate/oxide, 24% acid, 5% plastic and 4% residual. The majority of used lead acid batteries are recycled. However, many batteries are still discarded improperly resulting in potential problems such as vaporization of lead particles from the burning of batteries, and the leaching of lead and sulfuric acid from solid waste landfills. A Greenpeace investigation of automobile lead acid battery collection and recycling programs has revealed a a massive overflow of these extremely toxic wastes from heavily industrialized countries -- particularly Australia, Japan, the U.K. and the U.S. -- to many Third World countries, particularly in Asia. Complete documentation of the Greenpeace findings, in a report entitled The Myth of Automobile Battery Recycling, can be found here. Use of Solartech's battery performance technology to lengthen the life of lead acid batteries is the environmentally responsible thing to do! More information about the negative health effects of lead can be obtained from:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,
Most countries in the industrialized world are becoming more environmentally conscious. This is reflected in tough environmental protection legislation which has been introduced in many jurisdictions. Generally these laws are concerned with protecting the environment from harm through the use or transportation of hazardous substances. Lead usually tops the list of substances classified as hazardous in environmental legislation. It is undisputed that handling and disposal of used lead acid batteries pose risks to the environment. Failure to comply with environmental laws can result in onerous financial penalties, and even imprisonment. Some jurisdictions give corporate tax incentives for environmental responsibility. In Canada, which is representative of many other jurisdictions, courts have ruled that corporate directors are responsible for taking all reasonable measures to avoid and prevent harm to the environment through their company's activities. Liability can be assessed, even if there was no intent to cause harm to the environment. To avoid liability for environmental harm which has taken place, a defense of due diligence must be established. It must be shown that you did everything reasonably possible to prevent harm to the environment. Companies are well advised to develop an environmental protection policy and ensure that their operations meet or exceed legislated requirements in their jurisdiction. Use of Can-PULSE products will keep lead acid batteries in active service, thus minimizing the environmental risks associated with battery handling and disposal. Plan for the use Can-PULSE products when developing or reviewing your company's environmental protection policy concerning lead acid batteries. Here are two other articles from GreenPeace you may be interested in reading. "Lead Overload" concerning Lead Battery Waste Trade and Recycling in the Philippines. "Heavy Burden" a Case Study of the Lead Waste Imports to India. |