Indonesia’s environment devastated by illegal mining

Metals from smart phones or laptops come from illegal mines in countries like Indonesia, where miners toil in mud and sand.

The mining has a devastating effect on the country’s environment and people.

In a dangerous job like this, an average of 70 to 100 miners die every year.

They are sometimes buried for days before bodies are recovered, and if there is a landslide, at least four to five people can die.

Mining on the island is considered a well-paid job, so they are willing to take that chance.

Al Jazeera’s Stefanie Dekker reports from Bangka Island.