What are the economic costs and benifits of industrial pollutants?

Question

I've read that a chief economist for the World Bank said that Africa is underpolluted. He also said, "Health-impairing pollution should be done in the country with the lowest cost, which will be the countries with the lowest wages." I'm not sure I follow his reasoning. Could someone with more expertise in economics explain this?

Answer 1

Here is what I make of it. At times, pollution may be inevitable, for example there might be an urgent need to manufacture certain products which have pollution associated with them, however, if these products are not manufactured in time, it may cost a lot more to society. Medicines, could be an example. In the event of such a scenario, it might be best if the manufacturing is done, where the cost to fix the damages thereof, is the least.