Recycling used lead-acid batteries plays an important role in resource recovery—but when not managed properly, it can pose serious environmental and health risks. Facilities situated near homes and schools can significantly increase lead exposure, especially among children.

Sharing this from the Asian Development Bank: A new analysis explores how early-life lead exposure impacts learning outcomes in Indonesia. It found that children exposed before birth or up to age 6—and living within 3 km of a contaminated site—scored notably lower on cognitive skills tests than those living more than 6 km away.

This research underscores the urgent need for safer recycling practices and stronger environmental protections to safeguard communities.

? Read more: Lead Exposure and Cognitive Skills in Indonesia

What policies or actions do you think are most critical to protect vulnerable communities from toxic exposures?