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“For 26 years, I worked eight hours a day, every day, exposed to dust and gases from ammonia, fluoride, phosphoric and sulphuric acid,” explains the father of two. “We had little protection, just a disposable face mask for the dust. No one ever explained to us what we were inhaling.”
We can’t ignore that Phosphorus, the 11th most common element on earth, is fundamental to all living things. It is essential for the creation of DNA, cell membranes, and for bone and teeth formation in humans. It is vital for food production since it is one of three nutrients (nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus) used in commercial fertilizer
But solid phosphorus in the pure state can be present in three allotropic forms: white phosphorus, red phosphorus and black phosphorus. White phosphorus is the most dangerous form of phosphorus that is known. It is extremely toxic and in many cases the exposure is fatal.In most cases people who die from exposure to white phosphorus have accidentally swallowed rat poison. Before you die, you usually suffer from nausea, stomach cramps, and drowsiness.White phosphorus can cause skin burns. By burning, the white phosphorus can damage the liver, heart or kidneys.
In addition, Because of the constant rejection of phosphates in the environment by humans and therefore excessive concentrations of phosphorus in the nature the phosphorus cycle is strongly disturbed.
The increase in phosphorus concentrations in surface waters increases the growth of phosphate-dependent organisms, such as algae and water lenses. These organisms use large amounts of oxygen and prevent light from entering the water. Water therefore becomes rather unlivable for other organisms. This phenomenon is called eutrophication.
As a conclusion and also a reminder, Morocco has launched an ambitious strategy to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions with a focus on the energy sector, according to a Heinrich Boll Foundation report. Morocco’s Green Investment Plan is spending $11.5 billion on solar and wind energy programs over a period of 10 years. By 2030, Morocco aims to cover 52% of its energy needs with renewables. (cop22)
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2 Comment(s)
Hi Farouk,
I agree with Meriem, this is a well-written post! However, I would encourage you to think about the human component of this type of extraction: who benefits from this resource extra? The mining companies, the government? Who is disadvantaged? And how is this representative of colonialism? Your quotation at the beginning is very impactful, however it would be helpful if we knew who this person was, where they were located and they other ways they were impacted by the mine. Often times labour conditions are symptomatic of many different power dynamics at play and can speak to a relationship between industry and indigenous peoples. I would love to see you expand your scientific approach to better explore the impact on human communities.
Great job, Farouk!
I really lenjoyed reading your blog farouk! I think it's so rich and well written!
thank you, it's a pleasur for me knowing you enjoyed it
UalbertaKendra
Oct 25, 2017