Lead is a naturally occurring
toxic metal found in the Earth’s crust. Its widespread use has resulted in
extensive environmental contamination, human exposure and significant public
health problems in many parts of the world.
Important sources of environmental contamination include mining, smelting,
manufacturing and recycling activities, and, in some countries, the continued
use of leaded paint, leaded gasoline, and leaded aviation fuel. More than three
quarters of global lead consumption is for the manufacture of lead-acid
batteries for motor vehicles. Lead is, however, also used in many other
products, for example pigments, paints, solder, stained glass, lead crystal
glassware, ammunition, ceramic glazes, jeweler, toys and in some cosmetics and
traditional medicines. Drinking water delivered through lead pipes or pipes
joined with lead solder may contain lead. Much of the lead in global commerce is
now obtained from recycling.
Young children are particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of lead and can
suffer profound and permanent adverse health effects, particularly affecting the
development of the brain and nervous system. Lead also causes long-term harm in
adults, including increased risk of high blood pressure and kidney damage.
Exposure of pregnant women to high levels of lead can cause miscarriage,
stillbirth, premature birth and low birth weight, as well as minor
malformations.