Lead

Main Sources

Anti-knock additives in petrol accounted for 61% of airborne lead emissions in the UK in 1997, however these figures will have fallen due to the withdrawal of leaded petrol on January 1st 2000. The other major source of lead emissions comes from secondary non-ferrous metal smelters.

Health Risks

Exposure to high levels of lead may have severe toxic effects including problems in the synthesis of haemoglobin, effects on the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, joints and reproductive system, and acute or chronic damage to the nervous system. The greatest concern is from the possible effect of lead on the development of the brain, particularly in unborn children (Defra 2001)