Moroccan mining company Managem, controlled by Morocco’s royal family, has refuted allegations linking its mining activities to arsenic contamination in the local water supply. Associated Press says Managem Group, a subsidiary of Al Mada Group, released a statement countering claims made in a report by the German newspaper Suddeutsche Zeitung. The report suggested hazardous levels of arsenic were detected at a century-old cobalt mine in Bou Azzer, located in the central Moroccan desert.
The newspaper’s investigation found nearly 19,000 micrograms of arsenic per liter at the mine’s water source, whereas arsenic levels in Zaouit Sidi Blal, a community engaged in date farming about 4.3 miles (7 kilometers) away, were just over 400 micrograms per liter. This amount reportedly exceeds the World Health Organization’s recommended guideline for lifelong consumption by approximately 44 times.
Arsenic, a toxic substance found in sulfur and metals, is linked to cancer and vascular disease. However, Managem insists that its internal monitoring has not revealed any evidence of health or water quality issues. The company, which regularly assesses water quality for heavy metal presence during annual audits, did not provide specific data in its statement.
Managem acknowledges minor residual seepage in water retention basins under certain conditions but asserts that these do not pose a threat to the environment. The company is actively upgrading these basins as part of its commitment to achieving zero environmental impact.
These findings could complicate the global search for new cobalt sources, a critical component in electric vehicle batteries. European automakers, including BMW and Renault, have expressed interest in investigating water-related issues at Bou Azzer. Cobalt, along with lithium and nickel, is in high demand for electric vehicles, driving fierce competition for market share among the United States, China, and Europe.
