Cobalt: Dark truth behind electromobility revealed!

Cobalt: Dark truth behind electromobility revealed!

Next week a film will be shown that deals with a dark chapter in electromobility: cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo. On Wednesday, November 12th, at 7 p.m., the Potsdam Film Museum invites you to a screening of this insightful documentary. The sometimes disturbing images take a critical look at the basis of the energy transition in industrialized countries and address pressing problems such as child labor and corruption. Meetingpoint Potsdam reports that Following the screening, there will be an audience discussion at which director Arnaud Zajtman as well as Jan-Ulrich Dittmer from Amnesty International and other guests will be present. The journalist Julia Vismann moderates the discussion.

The importance of cobalt is undeniable in today's world. Over 50% of global cobalt reserves are found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country that has often struggled with social and economic turmoil. This valuable metal is found in almost all rechargeable batteries used in electric vehicles, smartphones and renewable energy. But while we look enviously at the latest electric cars here in Cologne, what's going on in the cobalt mines is often overlooked. Influential voices are now asking whether it is time to reopen mines in Europe to reduce dependence on these critical raw materials from abroad.

Child labor in cobalt mining

A look at the reality of cobalt production reveals how deeply rooted the problem is. Loud Humanium An estimated 40,000 children work in the DRK's cobalt mines, often as young as seven years old. These children work in catastrophic conditions - digging tunnels, carrying heavy loads and being exposed to toxic substances, without any protective clothing. They toil for less than two dollars a day, plagued by fear and trauma, while at the same time suffering from serious health problems.

The social conditions are fatal: over 73% of the population lives below the international poverty line. The rising cost of living is also forcing parents to send their children to the mines. The consequences are devastating: children in these regions often do not receive adequate education, and passionate dreams of a better future are brutally destroyed by the reality of work in the mines.

There is no lack of initiatives aimed at combating child labor in cobalt mining. Organizations such as Save the Children Switzerland and the dormakaba Group advocate for education and training programs in cobalt mining communities. The International Labor Organization's GALAB project aims to effectively combat child labor and improve local conditions. But is that enough to break the vicious circle? The upcoming discussion at the Film Museum will certainly raise some of these pressing questions.

Next opportunities and further information

The event in the Potsdam Film Museum takes place as part of the eco-film talks, which are organized until December 2025 in cooperation with the support association for public relations in nature and environmental protection FÖN e.V. and GREEN VISIONS POTSDAM. Entry costs 5 euros, and tickets are available by calling 0331-2718112 or online www.filmmuseum-potsdam.de available. The next event will take place on December 10th with the film “Dust to Dust”.

Whether in Cologne or elsewhere, each of us can be part of the discussion that goes beyond our own noses. Nutrition, mobility and the influence of the global economy on the realities of life for people in other parts of the world – there is a lot to discuss. Join us and be part of these important, necessary conversations!