Google, Apple, Tesla, Dell, and Microsoft have been sued for child mortality in the course of sourcing for Cobalt in DR Congo Mines. The suit was filed in the United States by the International Rights Advocates on behalf of 14 Congolese families.
Cobalt is a major source of mineral found in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The mines produce about 60% of the world’s cobalt supply. This mineral is used for the production of lithium-ion batteries that are used to power electric cars, laptops and smartphones by tech companies.
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However, the mining of cobalt has become overtly excessive, such that thousands of children die yearly at the mines. Some even lose vital body parts as a result of the mining hazards.
The suit filed by the International Right Advocates notes that tech companies are aware that cobalt sourcing could be linked to child labour.
The MorningStar blog explained that the tech companies abated the mining concerns and profited from children mining cobalt under dangerous conditions.
The lead counsel for the 14 Congolese families, Barr. Terry Collingsworth said that the premeditated abuse of children is on a large scale in DR Congo. He pledges to champion the course that will get justice for the children as soon as possible.
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