What is cadmium?

Cadmium is a heavy metal that is often found as a by-product of zinc, lead, and copper smelting processes. It is used in various industries such as:

Battery manufacturing (especially Ni-Cd batteries)

Plastic pellet paint

Anti-rust plating

Electronic industry

Cadmium is a non-biodegradable substance and when it enters the body or the environment, it will cause long-term effects.

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Health hazards of cadmium

Cadmium can enter the body through inhalation, dust, and contamination in food and water, with severe effects such as:

1. Chronic renal failure – Cadmium accumulates in the kidneys, reducing waste filtration.
2. Brittle and deformed bones – Interfering with calcium absorption, resulting in brittle bones.
3. Lung cancer – People who inhale cadmium dust for a long time are at risk of developing lung cancer.
4. Anemia and weakened immune system – Cadmium interferes with the function of iron in the body.
5. Acute toxicity – Ingesting large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory failure.

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Environmental Impact

1. Water contamination – Causing water sources to be toxic, affecting aquatic animals and agriculture
2. Food chain accumulation – Plants can absorb cadmium from the soil and pass it on to humans through food
3. Soil degradation – Cadmium-contaminated soil may not be able to grow crops or may contaminate crops
4. Impact on wildlife – Cadmium can cause health problems in wildlife, such as abnormal reproductive systems

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Countermeasures and prevention

1. Safe disposal of cadmium – Specialized technologies are required to remove or recycle it.
2. Environmental quality monitoring and control – Continuously monitor cadmium levels in soil, water and air.
3. Public education – Alert affected communities about risks and preventive measures.
4. Strict enforcement of environmental laws – Control imports, exports and the management of waste containing cadmium.