As part of Pure Earth’s advocacy campaign, we engaged the students at the University of Ghana, Department of Earth Science (Ghana Institute of Geoscience) to empower the youth to combat lead pollution and poisoning.
Pure Earth Ghana with the University of Ghana, Department of Earth Science student. Date: 23rd July 2024.
In a significant step towards addressing the critical issue of lead pollution and poisoning in Ghana, Pure Earth Ghana, formerly known as Blacksmith Initiative, successfully organized an educational workshop at the Department of Earth of the University of Ghana. This event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including lecturers, the Ghana Institute of Geoscience, an environmental consultant, and earth science students. This is part of Pure Earth’s broader mission to engage academia to tackle toxic pollution in low- and middle-income countries like Ghana.
The educational workshop, themed “Empowering the Ghanaian Youth to Combat Lead Pollution and Poisoning: Strategies for a Sustainable Future”, focused on raising awareness and providing education on lead pollution and its severe health impacts, particularly on children. This event aligns with Pure Earth, Blacksmith Initiative’s ongoing efforts to solve the health and environmental impacts of toxic pollutants through research, advocacy, and collaborations on ground intervention.
Lead poisoning and pollution is a pressing environmental health issues in Ghana, with unregulated recycling of lead-acid batteries in urban areas leading to significant contamination. According to “The Toxic Truth” report by Pure Earth and UNICEF, around 800 million children worldwide are affected by lead poisoning, with nearly half of these children living in South Asia. The informal recycling of lead-acid batteries is a primary source of exposure, releasing large amounts of lead into the environment through unsafe methods. Studies by Pure Earth and partners have shown that Blood Lead Levels (BLLs) in children in some selected regions exceed the Word Health Organization (WHO) thresholds of 5ug/dl.
The educational workshop which brought together a hundred participants aimed to educate and empower young people to take an active role in combating lead pollution and poisoning. It provided a platform for students and young professionals to learn about the sources and impacts of lead pollution, as well as practical solutions and strategies to address this pressing issue of lead pollution.
Pure Earth Ghana with Department of Earth Science faculty lecturers and guest speaker from Mountain Research Institute (MRI). Date: 23rd July 2024
The educational workshop significantly increased awareness among youth about the sources and effects of lead pollution and poisoning in Ghana. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the environmental and health challenges posed by lead contamination.
In-depth knowledge about the scientific and health aspects of lead pollution and poisoning was imparted to the attendees. Experts in the field shared valuable insights and research findings, enhancing the participants’ understanding of the issue.
The workshop empowered the next generation of environmental leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to combat lead pollution. By engaging and educating youth and awarding certification of participation to the attendees, Pure Earth Ghana hopes to foster a sustainable future where communities are free from the dangers of lead pollution and poisoning. The workshop saw active participation from a mix of stakeholders, including lecturers, and earth science students, The interactive sessions and discussions provided a comprehensive understanding of the issue and encouraged participants to contribute to finding solutions.
The educational workshop organized by Pure Earth Ghana marks a significant milestone in the fight against lead pollution and poisoning. By empowering the youth, Pure Earth Ghana is taking a crucial step toward creating a lead-free future. The event’s success reflects Pure Earth’s commitment to solving toxic pollution problems and improving public health in vulnerable communities. As Pure Earth celebrates its 25th anniversary, the organization remains dedicated to addressing toxic pollution and protecting the health and well-being of communities worldwide. The workshop’s outcome contributes significantly to Pure Earth’s mission of reducing the death and disability caused by toxic pollutants, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Ghana.
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