12 MAR | Unveiling a comprehensive multi-level approach: Addressing lead pollution globally, regionally, and locally

Lead is identified by GAHP, PE, UNICEF and the WHO as a significant public health hazard, with exposure costing about 6.9% of global GDP, particularly affecting LMICs. Read GAHP’s Pollution and Health: A Global Public Health Crisis. The Global Alliance on Health and Pollution (GAHP) tackles lead pollution through global advocacy, including promoting safe practices for managing Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs).

Addressing the issue of lead pollution requires a comprehensive and multi-level approach involving global, regional, and local efforts.

This is why GAHP engages in collaborative policy and advocacy efforts at global, regional and local Levels.

Our global efforts start by participating in international platforms, such as the Working Group on the Technical Guidelines of the Basel Convention. The development and promotion of environmentally sound management practices for Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs) is essential. GAHP demands emphasis on enhancing the focus on health impacts. We attended the ULABs meeting on March 10-12, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland.

At the regional level, GAHP convenes multisectoral dialogues, such as the one under MERCOSUR. These dialogues bring together government and private sector representatives, amongst other interested actors, to discuss and implement strategies tailored to the specific challenges faced by the region. We are working on organising the next meeting under the Pro Tempore Presidency of Paraguay to establish a dialogue and advance actions to enhance the formal management of ULABs in the region. Visit our website to read about this work.

At the local level, GAHP provides technical expertise to countries and implements projects to mitigate the risks associated with lead exposure. In this type of work, local initiatives, driven by the involvement of community members, local governments and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), contribute to raising awareness, implementing sustainable practices, and ensuring the proper disposal of used lead acid batteries.

Lead battery production accounts for approximately 90% of lead consumption. Therefore, the recyclability of lead throughout the entire life cycle of lead batteries is crucial. Properly managing ULABs through the implementation of a circular economy (recovering second raw materials) can lead to the shutdown of primary lead production, reducing the environmental impact throughout the lead life cycle (from mining to disposal). This approach can also be extended to other components, such as plastics and sulfuric acid.

GAHP recognises the interconnectedness of global, regional, and local efforts in addressing lead pollution. A holistic approach that combines advocacy, knowledge sharing, capacity building, and community engagement on all these levels is essential for achieving meaningful and sustainable results in the fight against lead pollution. Don't hesitate to contact us to support our work in this field and find ways to contribute to the challenges posed by lead pollution.