NEUROLOGICAL development of children could be affected by high levels of toxins found in mining towns such as Mount Isa, according to a Macquarie University study.
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Professor Mark Taylor, co-author of the study, said data proved children in suburbs closest to Mount Isa’s smelting operations were 2.5 times more likely to struggle in more than two of five types of learning development.
The study examined other mining communities like Port Pirie and Broken Hill and compared Australian Early Development Census and NAPLAN results with areas of metal contamination levels.
The socio-economic status of children was considered when the results were compared.
“It actually looks like lead exposure compounds with socio-economic status,” Professor Taylor said.
“We don’t know the reason for that … it just confirms mining operations in these communities are significant and have long-term impacts on children.”
The paper drew on data from 2008 to 2013.
However, results were not projections.
Relevant mining companies invested a large amount of money in Mount Isa recently in improving the local environmental risks, Professor Taylor said.
“Exposure to toxic metals is a modifiable risk factor so it is not unreasonable to expect that future health and welfare strategies for mining regions should include approaches to reduce such risks,” he said.
“It’s important to know they (mining companies) have responded.
“There’s significant investments and they should pay dividends if they work,” he said.
A Glencore spokesperson said the company recognised its responsibility to ensure the safe and prosperous coexistence of operations and the community.
The mine has taken measures to reduce contaminants, the spokesperson said.
“More recently, this has included a refurbishment of the ventilation systems at our lead smelter to improve emission capture and having dedicated lead concentrate storage facilities fitted with dust extraction and scrubbing systems.”
