The Democratic Republic of Congo produces ~75% of the world’s cobalt — the key mineral in lithium-ion batteries. But behind the “green” technology lies a harsh reality of child labor, dangerous conditions, and extreme poverty. Time to look closer.
The video that’s making people rethink their smartphones and EVs.
In the heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), thousands of people — including children — dig for cobalt with their bare hands. They carry heavy sacks of ore on their backs for just a few dollars a day. This isn’t rare footage. It’s the daily reality in many artisanal cobalt mines.
Key Facts:
• The DRC supplies 70-76% of global cobalt production.
• Cobalt is essential for the batteries in smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.
• Artisanal and small-scale mining accounts for a significant portion of DRC’s output.
• Reports document tens of thousands of children working in these mines under hazardous conditions.
Workers face collapsing tunnels, toxic dust exposure, and minimal safety protection. Many earn around $2 per day — barely enough to survive in one of the world’s poorest regions.
This is the hidden cost of “green technology.”
While companies race to electrify transport and promote sustainable futures, the supply chain often starts in places like Kolwezi and Shabara, where child labor and exploitation remain serious problems.
Not all mining is the same — large industrial mines operated by big companies have better standards on paper, but traceability is still difficult, and issues persist across the chain.
What can we do?
• Demand better transparency from tech and EV companies.
• Support organizations working on the ground to formalize mining and provide alternatives for families.
• Choose brands with stronger due diligence and ethical sourcing policies (when available).
• Raise awareness — share the truth.
The transition to clean energy shouldn’t come at the expense of human lives. Sustainable technology must also be ethically sourced.
Sources & Further Reading:
• Amnesty International reports on cobalt mining
• “Cobalt Red” by Siddharth Kara
• U.S. Department of Labor findings on child labor
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