An Analysis of Lead Pollution in Guiyu, China

Guiyu, a rural village in Guangdong Province, China, is considered to be one of the most polluted places in the world. As a major destination of the world’s electronic waste, or e-waste, Guiyu is a source of worldwide controversy over how to address the growing problem of e-waste disposal. E-waste describes discarded electronic or electric devices—from cell phones and computers to televisions and refrigerators— and is the fastest growing segment of the waste stream. While e-waste does contain valuable materials and components which can be reclaimed, it also contains an assortment of toxins and heavy metals which, if not handled correctly, can result in severe environmental and human health damage. One particular pollutant— lead—is released in large quantities from processing activities and has had dramatic effects on the health of the villagers and the surrounding environment. Despite national and international regulations outlawing the movement of hazardous electronic waste to informal recycling workshops in rural China, the e-waste industry continues to grow. In order to understand how to address the problem from a different angle, I examine the systemic forces which strongly support this industry. I then use this understanding to propose solutions that have the potential to improve environmental conditions in Guiyu.