Philippines e‑waste sites show genotoxic effects in Metro Manila soils and workers

A study by De La Salle University examined three e‑waste landfill sites in and around Metro Manila. Using the Allium cepa root assay, researchers observed inhibited root growth, altered morphology and a high frequency of chromosomal aberrations in onion cells exposed to leachates from the contaminated soils.

Atomic absorption spectroscopy revealed heavy‑metal concentrations in the soils ranking Ni > Cu > Pb > Zn > Cd, many times above WHO permissible limits. The same metals were detected in the hair of informal recyclers, confirming human exposure. The authors conclude that improper e‑waste disposal poses a serious genotoxic risk to the Filipino population and call for proper e‑waste management to protect public health and the environment.