Assessing Green Policies for the Rehabilitation and Sustainable Restoration of Mine Sites in Cameroon: Case of the Mayo-Darlé Mine Site, Adamawa Region

Abstract

Mining is not without negative consequences for the environment. It is appropriate for each concerned state, particularly Cameroon, to adopt and implement mining laws and regulations to reduce environmental risks. The former Mayo-Darlé mine site in the Adamawa region that has been abandoned for several decades is a striking example of the limitations and lapses of national environmental protection policies. Hence, this study outlines an inventory of features in the concerned mine site while analyzing green policies related to the mining sector in Cameroon. The study attempts to modelize the socio-economic and environmental impacts in the sustainable management of the Mayo-Darlé mine site. The study proposes the prescription of a green network to encourage artisanal sustainable practices within mining fields. This “eco-sustainable" strategy shall be specific to mine site development. The implementation of measures outlined in the proposed policy shall considerably improve environmental conditions around the mine site. This involves the establishment of a rehabilitation plan and realistic restoration of the Mayo Darlé site for good preservation of the environment.