My focus here is on the extraction and movement of materials that are either healthdamaging or whose transfer across geographic space results in potential harm. To that end, I concentrate on: mineral extraction; the transfer of waste, especially plastics; and arms transfers. These are linkages or commodity chains that all involve movement, including the extraction of materials from the ground, the transport of these and, ultimately, the disposal of waste products associated with extraction or with the residue of consumer products. Inevitably, those living near extraction or waste sites, or living alongside the routes along which materials are transported, incur environmental penalties or injustice (Box 6.1). Although many of these transfers can result in harm, in some cases there might be benefits; for example, the extraction of precious minerals may offer employment to those engaged in extraction and movement (although, as we see shortly, costs invariably outweigh benefits). Some may benefit, but others reap no rewards and incur harm.

Mineral extraction and global health

In Chapter 2 I explored some dimensions of health inequalities in Mozambique. Others are reflected in mining. Among the mining projects in Mozambique is the Montepuez open-pit ruby mine in Cabo Delgado, started by the major company Gemfields in 2011. Its impact on population health (along with that of other mines in sub-Saharan Africa) has been studied by Leuenberger et al. (2021). In focus group discussions, people reported their lives being threatened if they attempted to scavenge the mine tailings. Others reported ill health resulting from population mixing. For example, one person complained about the importation of diseases from those coming to work in the ruby mine: “Now these people from outside who come with their diseases come here and contaminate us without knowing the reason why the diseases are increasing more and more” (quoted in Leuenberger et al. 2021). The authors also report health effects linked to pollution and food insecurity. Despite attempts by the company to improve living and working conditions, the overall view on health was negative.