Australia | Environment watchdog buried report on lead in children’s blood to placate mining companies, emails show | AI News Digest
Internal emails reveal that the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) delayed the release of a crucial report linking elevated lead levels in children's blood to mining activities for four years. The report, produced by Prof. Mark Taylor, indicated that nearly half of children under five in Broken Hill had elevated lead levels, with mining emissions identified as the primary source. The EPA assured mining companies that the report would be published quietly, avoiding media attention. Critics, including the NSW Greens, have expressed concern over the EPA's culture of suppressing vital health information to protect mining interests. The EPA has denied any wrongdoing, stating that the community received a draft of the report in 2020. The situation raises significant questions about transparency and public health priorities in relation to mining operations.
