Zambia's Copperbelt region is experiencing a surge in mining activities, spurred by the global demand for copper essential for sustainable energy initiatives such as electric vehicles and renewable technologies. Mining towns like Kitwe, Luanshya, Mufulira, and Chingola have seen an influx of business amidst this boom, but local communities are bearing the costs of unchecked pollution and ecological degradation.

The mining operations, particularly the Chinese-owned Sino-Metals Leach Zambia, have raised alarms with incidents like the February 2025 acid spill that contaminated a crucial part of the Kafue River watershed. This river is a key water supply for millions of Zambians across several provinces, and the spill has exacerbated issues of water safety and agricultural viability in the region.

The consequences of this environmental negligence extend beyond immediate health risks, posing long-term threats to the ecosystem and the livelihoods of local inhabitants. As Zambians grapple with the repercussions of mining pollution, the need for effective environmental oversight and more responsible mining practices becomes ever more evident, highlighting the complexities of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability.