Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of catching-up with my pal Hope 👇 …
… to discuss Cobalt Red: the somber, informative, data-supported and provocative book written by Siddharth Kara.
Click here for a discussion summary that Hope put together.
A few highlights:
70% of the World’s cobalt comes from the DRC
Yet 80% of the World’s cobalt refining is handled by China
40,000 minors - formally called artisanal miners - working in mines
Some miners are as minor as 6 years old
Who cares?
Nobody cares enough to do anything. Most don’t know about it. The rest of us either don’t care or not entirely sure much can change as long as surface-level cobalt is mine-able.
The resource-curse cuts both ways and its force is stronger than morals.
While we discussed the book a bit - my conversation with Hope, quickly turned somewhat philosophical and meta. So rather than a Book Club discussion we essentially started shooting the shit. Press PLAY on the headline GIF to watch the entire glorious 42 minute convo.
Hope you enjoy it and if anything resonates please leave a comment. I recently had a chance to meet some European friends IRL and engage in some much needed banter - much of it sardonic, witty, cutting, hopeful and motivating. It’s fun to hear from you if you are so inclined.
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