The issue of toxic emissions from industrial plants is a pressing concern in many communities around the world. One such example is the coking plant in Zenica, where black smoke billows from the chimneys, releasing harmful substances into the atmosphere. The process of steelmaking, which involves converting coal into coke to strip oxygen from iron ore and produce steel, is a major source of pollution.
In the documentary film “The Sky Above Zenica,” environmental activist Lemeš highlights the lack of blast furnace gas filters at the coking plant, leading to the release of toxic substances like benzene and benzo[a]pyrene. Despite being granted a government license in 2010, ArcelorMittal, the world’s largest steel producer, neglected its environmental duties and failed to comply with safety standards.
Efforts by Eko Forum to hold ArcelorMittal accountable for its emissions led to increased testing of carcinogenic pollutants in the area. The results showed dangerous chemicals exceeding legal limits by alarming margins. Additionally, the construction of a new heat plant, Toplana Zenica, funded in part by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, raised concerns about the plant’s reliance on the coking plant for fuel, leading to further pollution.
In a positive development, ArcelorMittal announced the permanent closure of the coking plant in Zenica in 2022 for economic and environmental reasons. This decision resulted in a significant decrease in emissions from the plant. The closure also prompted the use of purified coke from other sources, improving the environmental impact of steel production in the region.
Despite attempts to hold ArcelorMittal accountable through legal action, including a lawsuit filed by Eko Forum and a private lawsuit by a local family, the lack of evidence hindered these efforts. The documentary sheds light on the environmental challenges faced by the citizens of Zenica, ranked as the sixth most polluted city in Europe.
Director Frank Møller hopes that “The Sky Above Zenica” will raise awareness and spark conversations about environmental responsibility and social inequality. By showcasing the impact of industrial pollution on communities, the film urges viewers to reflect on the need for sustainable practices and equitable development.
This article, adapted from the original piece in the Resurgence & Ecologist magazine, underscores the importance of addressing environmental issues and advocating for a healthier, more sustainable future for all. The world is constantly changing, and with it, our ways of living, working, and connecting with others. The way we communicate has evolved significantly over the years, with technology playing a major role in shaping the way we interact with one another.
One of the most significant advancements in communication technology has been the rise of social media platforms. These platforms have revolutionized the way we connect with friends, family, and even strangers from all around the world. Social media has made it easier for us to stay in touch with loved ones, share important moments in our lives, and even build communities based on shared interests.
Social media has also transformed the way we consume news and information. In the past, we relied on traditional media outlets such as newspapers, TV, and radio to stay informed about current events. Now, with the click of a button, we can access news from around the globe in real-time through social media platforms. This has democratized the flow of information, allowing anyone with an internet connection to become a citizen journalist and share their perspective on important issues.
However, along with the many benefits of social media, there are also some drawbacks. The spread of fake news and misinformation has become a major concern, as it can easily be shared and amplified on social media platforms. This has led to increased polarization and division among people, as individuals are exposed to information that aligns with their beliefs and biases.
Furthermore, social media has also raised concerns about privacy and data security. With the amount of personal information we share online, there is a risk of this data being misused or exploited by malicious actors. This has led to calls for greater regulation and oversight of social media platforms to protect users’ privacy and ensure the integrity of the information shared online.
Despite these challenges, social media remains a powerful tool for communication and connection. It has enabled us to stay connected with others, share our stories, and mobilize for social change. As we continue to navigate the ever-changing landscape of social media, it is important to be mindful of the impact it has on our lives and society as a whole. By using social media responsibly and critically engaging with the information we encounter, we can harness its power for good and create a more connected and informed world.
