SUS1501 Assignment 3 (2025)
Title: Ethical and Sustainability Challenges in Cobalt Mining in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo
Introduction
Cobalt plays a vital role in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely
used in mobile devices, computers, and electric vehicles. The Democratic Republic of
the Congo (DRC) is a major contributor to the global cobalt supply, providing nearly
60% of the world’s reserves. Despite its economic importance, cobalt mining in the DRC
raises serious ethical and environmental concerns. These include the exploitation of
child labor, unsafe working environments, and the long-term damage to ecosystems.
This assignment explores these issues and emphasizes the need for accountability from
consumers, corporations, and policymakers.
Ethical Issues in Cobalt Mining
Child Labor and Human Exploitation
One of the most alarming ethical challenges in cobalt extraction in the DRC is the
widespread use of child labor. Young children, some as young as six years old, are
involved in mining operations under hazardous conditions. These children often work
extended hours without protective gear, putting them at high risk for injuries, respiratory
illnesses, and exposure to toxic metals. Additionally, limited access to education traps
them in a cycle of poverty, making it difficult to break free from exploitative labor
systems.
Dangerous Working Environments
A large portion of the DRC’s cobalt is extracted through informal or small-scale mining,
often referred to as artisanal mining. These miners operate without proper training,
tools, or safety measures. Many face life-threatening conditions such as collapsing mine
shafts and exposure to harmful chemicals. Despite the high global demand and price for
cobalt, many miners earn extremely low wages—often under one U.S. dollar per day—
while risking their health and lives.
Title: Ethical and Sustainability Challenges in Cobalt Mining in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo
Introduction
Cobalt plays a vital role in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries, which are widely
used in mobile devices, computers, and electric vehicles. The Democratic Republic of
the Congo (DRC) is a major contributor to the global cobalt supply, providing nearly
60% of the world’s reserves. Despite its economic importance, cobalt mining in the DRC
raises serious ethical and environmental concerns. These include the exploitation of
child labor, unsafe working environments, and the long-term damage to ecosystems.
This assignment explores these issues and emphasizes the need for accountability from
consumers, corporations, and policymakers.
Ethical Issues in Cobalt Mining
Child Labor and Human Exploitation
One of the most alarming ethical challenges in cobalt extraction in the DRC is the
widespread use of child labor. Young children, some as young as six years old, are
involved in mining operations under hazardous conditions. These children often work
extended hours without protective gear, putting them at high risk for injuries, respiratory
illnesses, and exposure to toxic metals. Additionally, limited access to education traps
them in a cycle of poverty, making it difficult to break free from exploitative labor
systems.
Dangerous Working Environments
A large portion of the DRC’s cobalt is extracted through informal or small-scale mining,
often referred to as artisanal mining. These miners operate without proper training,
tools, or safety measures. Many face life-threatening conditions such as collapsing mine
shafts and exposure to harmful chemicals. Despite the high global demand and price for
cobalt, many miners earn extremely low wages—often under one U.S. dollar per day—
while risking their health and lives.
