Why in the news?

  • A new study found that lead exposure continues to pose a serious public health and economic challenge in the 21st century, despite the global phase-out of leaded petrol.

Lead Pollution

  • What is lead?
    • Lead (Pb) is a toxic heavy metal that accumulates in the environment and living organisms.
    • It is non-biodegradable and persists in soil, water, and air, causing long-term contamination.
  • Sources of Lead Pollution
    • Industrial Sources:
      • Battery manufacturing and recycling (especially lead-acid batteries).
      • Smelting and mining of lead ores.
      • Paint and pigment industries.
      • Ceramics, glass, and plastic manufacturing.
    • Vehicular Emissions (historical):
      • Use of leaded petrol was a major source before it was phased out globally (India banned leaded petrol in 2000).
    • Domestic and Urban Sources:
      • Lead-based paints, plumbing pipes, contaminated dust, and old household products.
      • E-waste and informal recycling sectors.
    • Agricultural and Water Sources:
      • Contaminated soil and irrigation water near industrial areas.
      • Leaching from lead pipes into drinking water.
  • Impacts
    • Health Impacts
      • Damage to brain and nervous system → reduced IQ, learning disabilities.
      • Anemia due to interference with hemoglobin synthesis.
      • Kidney and liver damage.
      • Reproductive problems and developmental delays.
      • In adults: hypertension, cardiovascular issues, and neurological disorders.
    • Environment Pacts
      • Contaminates soil, water, and crops, entering the food chain.
      • Affects microbial activity in soil, reducing fertility.
      • Aquatic life suffers from bioaccumulation and toxicity.
  • Government Measures in India
    • Ban on leaded petrol (2000).
    • Regulation of Lead in Paint Rules (2016): Limits lead content in paints to 90 ppm.
    • E-Waste Management Rules (2016): Regulates recycling of batteries and electronics.
    • National Programme for Elimination of Lead Poisoning (proposed): To monitor blood lead levels and raise public awareness.
    • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) monitors industrial lead emissions and water quality.
  • Preventive and Mitigation Measures
    • Promote lead-free paints, batteries, and plumbing materials.
    • Enforce safe recycling and waste disposal practices.
    • Strengthen public health surveillance for lead exposure.
    • Raise awareness on occupational safety and hygiene in informal sectors.
    • Encourage green and circular economy practices in metal recycling