Cadmium pollution is a significant environmental issue in many developing countries. Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal that is released into the environment through various industrial processes, including mining, smelting, and manufacturing.

It is also found in fertilizers and can contaminate soil and water sources. One of the main sources of cadmium pollution in developing countries is the lack of strict regulations and enforcement of environmental standards.

Many industries in these countries operate with outdated technologies and inadequate pollution control measures, leading to the release of cadmium and other pollutants into the air, water, and soil. The mining industry is a major contributor to cadmium pollution in developing countries.

Improper waste disposal and lack of containment measures result in the release of cadmium-containing waste into nearby rivers and streams, contaminating water sources and affecting aquatic life. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining, in particular, is a significant source of cadmium pollution as it often involves the use of mercury, which can lead to the formation of cadmium compounds.

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