In the Philippines, informal e-waste dismantling poses health risks
6 days ago
- #informal-workers
- #health-risks
- #e-waste
- Dexter Barsigan, a 47-year-old father of three, has been dismantling electronic waste (e-waste) for 13 years to support his family.
- E-waste dismantling in the Philippines involves hazardous chemicals like lead, mercury, and cadmium, posing severe health risks.
- Informal e-waste workers lack protective equipment and training, leading to respiratory illnesses, nerve damage, and other health issues.
- Burning rubber casings to extract metals releases toxic fumes, affecting children and pregnant women disproportionately.
- The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia's top e-waste generators, producing 540 million kg in 2022.
- Medicins du Monde advocates for formal recognition and regulation of informal e-waste workers to improve safety.
- Dexter Barsigan continues working despite health issues, fearing loss of income for his children's future.