If you are not aware of the severity of what is taking place in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I urge you to inform yourself about the devastating impact of cobalt and coltan mining has had on the country. Although crucial for tech, mining these minerals has led to the displacement of about 7 million people. environmental damage, and child labor abuses. Over 40,000 children are reported to work in hazardous mining conditions.
Cobalt and coltan are important for technology devises. Coltan is used to make parts like capacitors in devices like phones and computers to sustain power. While Cobalt is used in batteries of phones, laptops, and electric cars. With the advancement of electric cars, this only makes the need for cobalt and coltan much more severe. Without these minerals, much of our tech would be inefficient.
What does that mean for us? Or, what should that mean for us?
If you live in a society where technology is the main source of communication, which I am assuming you do considering you're probably reading this on your phone or computer, then you need to actively work towards the liberation of Congolese people.
In the Congo, the mining industry has taken over the entire economy, leaving citizens forced to work in hazardous environments without proper equipment. Even if everyone reading this threw away their phones, crashed their Teslas, and burned their Mac Books, the problem would still persist.
In times where it feels like we have no power, remember to educate yourself, put your money where your mouth is, and consume less tech!