Dynamics of land cover changes and condition of soil and surface water quality in a Mining–Altered landscape, Ghana

Kumi, Samuel; Adu-Poku, David; Attiogbé, Francis

doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17859

Cited by 10 publications

(2 citation statements)

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“…Reference [9] found that artisanal gold mining had a negative effect on the overall quality of surface water. Reference [23] suggest that artisanal gold mining negatively affects surface and groundwater resources, endangering the livelihoods of marginalized farmers in downstream areas. Artisanal gold mining has been discovered to cause changes in land cover and land use patterns in developing countries [19]- [24].…”

Section: Fagariba Et Almentioning

confidence: 99%

“…This would go a long way towards reducing the adverse impact of ASM on the environment. A study has indicated that training and supporting small-scale miners enhances mining skills, efficiency, and output, as well as reducing environmental degradation [9]- [23]. The study analyses indicated that access to mining concessions (WAI-1.55) could help address the adverse impact of ASM on the environment.…”

Section: Measures To Address Artisanal and Small-scale Challengesmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining Impact on Soil and Agriculture: Evidence from Upper Denkyira East Municipality, Ghana

Fagariba,

Sumani,

Mohammed

2024

EJGEO

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The gold mining industry in Ghana has made a substantial contribution to the country's economic growth by generating diverse employment opportunities, both directly and indirectly, in mining communities. This has the potential to mitigate poverty and improve the quality of life for individuals and households in rural areas, where climate change is having a disproportionate impact on small-scale farmers. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that this sector has also resulted in detrimental environmental impacts. A total 150 key informants in Upper Denkyira East Municipality, comprising representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency, the Forestry Commission, the Mineral Commission, and other stakeholders, were interviewed using standardize questionnaire to ascertain the impact of mining on the soil, agriculture and the environment. The study also employed inductively coupled plasma to assess the concentration of heavy metals in soils at a small-scale mining site. The soil analyses indicated high concentrations of heavy metals, such as mercury, arsenic, nickel, zinc, and iron. The Weighted Average Index, which was used to assess the impact of mining, revealed that communities face challenges such as deforestation, low crop yields, water pollution, land tenure issues, and a high cost of living. The study's analyses of measures to address small scale mining challenges revealed that alternative livelihood, law enforcement, training and support, and access to mining concessions were perceived as suitable for addressing artisanal and small scale mining. The study concluded that stricter mining regulations, promoting sustainable mining practices, and providing comprehensive training to miners on environmental protection and land reclamation can help mitigate the negative impacts of artisanal and small-scale mining. Additionally, supporting alternative means of livelihood for mining communities, such as agriculture or eco-tourism, can reduce reliance on mining and promote sustainable development.

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