Researchers at The University of Manchester have identified dangerous levels of lead pollution in Malawi due to informal recycling of lead-acid batteries from off-grid solar systems. Common informal recycling activities for lead-acid batteries used in solar energy systems were recorded to release 3.5-4.7 kg of lead pollution from a typical battery, equivalent to more than 100 times the lethal oral dose of lead for an adult. These findings were recently published in the journal Applied Energy.
The scientists warn that the absence of formal waste management infrastructure presents major human health and environmental risks and requires immediate government intervention.
Without developing infrastructure, legislation and education around these technologies, there are severe public health risks. Significant social, economic and legislative interventions are required for these solar products to be considered as a safe, low-carbon technology in sub-Saharan Africa.
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