In the 1980s, the Swedish company Boliden Mineral AB transported about 20,000 tons of toxic waste to Arica, Chile, in an agreement with the local company Promel Ltda. After decades, local residents have experienced serious health problems, including cancer, joint pain, respiratory difficulties, allergies, anemia, miscarriages, and birth defects, which have been linked to exposure to this waste. Those affected have asked for help to improve their health and prevent the toxics from spreading, as they contain high concentrations of arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead.
In 2013, more than 700 residents of Arica initiated a legal claim against Boiden in Sweden, but the case was dismissed by the Norrland North Court of Appeal on the grounds of the temporality of the affectations. The residents of Arica are fighting for justice and accountability on the part of the company responsible.
For some residents, like Daniel Bembow, who has become an environmental activist, the toxic waste was part of his childhood. He and his siblings used to play with the metals found in the toxic pits in the area, not realizing the danger they were exposing themselves to.
The people of Africa continue to demand that steps be taken to remedy the situation and protect the health of the community. It is essential that environmental problems are addressed and that companies are held accountable for the consequences of their actions.