Copsa Mica Tragedy...

On the train line from Sighisoara to Sibiu lies the blackened industrial mess of Copsa Mica:

During the 1950s to 1990s two factories Carbosin - produced carbon black for dyes and tyres - and Sometra - a non-ferrous metal smelter - were responsible for causing Copsa Mica to hold the dubious distinction of being the most polluted city in Europe.

Under the Ceausescu regime, the plants failed to receive adequate resources and maintenance. This, coupled with ever increasing quotas, resulted in reported lead levels reaching 1000 times the national allowable limit, a life expectancy of 6-9 years less than the national average, widespread lead poisoning and the highest infant mortality rate in Europe.

Carbosin shut down in 1993 - with 1700 people left unemployed - but Sometra is still operational.