Microprocessors are not all Intel Corp. will ship to the United States from its new assembly plant near here. Because Costa Rica lacks proper disposal facilities, the chip manufacturer also must export tons of toxic waste. Locally, the only depository for refuse of any kind is the federal capital’s overflowing Rio Azul landfill, where battery acid, lead paint and other toxics leach into the water table. For 10 years San José’s municipal government has sought a site for a new dump, but it has demurred in the face of fierce public opposition. Meanwhile, some businesses, barred from sending certain hazardous materials to the landfill, have resorted to illegal dumping. This is the situation Intel faced when it decided to build its computer chip factory here... [Log in to read more]