Developing an Improved Strategy for Addressing Environmental Issues Caused by Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (Asm) in Ghana

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss the environmental issues associated with Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) undertakings in Ghana and propose environmental measures to mitigate their effects. Despite providing rural and less developed sections of Ghana's citizens with job benefits and increased mineral wealth and foreign exchange revenues, ASM activities have caused serious environmental degradation which includes, inter alia; deforestation and land degradation, persistent water, soil and air pollution and/or contamination through the use of mercury (Hg), etc. To address these issues, it is suggested that the Government of Ghana collaborate with not-for-profit organizations and international bodies to provide ASM workers with better educational, financial, and economic resources to meet SDGs 8, 12 and 15 for decent Work and Economic Growth, responsible Consumption and Production, and life on Land respectively.

Keywords: Ghana, Artisanal and Small-scale Mining, Large scale Mining, environmental degradation, Policy, Government of Ghana