Abstract
This paper is one of three synthesis documents produced via an integrated assessment (IA) that aims to increase understanding of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) in Ghana. Given the complexities surrounding ASGM, an integrated assessment (IA) framework was utilized to analyze socio-economic, health, and environmental data, and co-develop evidence-based responses with stakeholders. This paper focuses on the causes, status, trends, and consequences of ecological issues related to ASGM activity in Ghana. It reviews dozens of studies and thousands of samples to document evidence of heavy metals contamination in ecological media across Ghana. Soil and water mercury concentrations were generally lower than guideline values, but sediment mercury concentrations surpassed guideline values in 64% of samples. Arsenic, cadmium, and lead exceeded guideline values in 67%, 17%, and 24% of water samples, respectively. Other water quality parameters near ASGM sites show impairment, with some samples exceeding guidelines for acidity, turbidity, and nitrates. Additional ASGM-related stressors on environmental quality and ecosystem services include deforestation, land degradation, biodiversity loss, legacy contamination, and potential linkages to climate change. Though more research is needed to further elucidate the long-term impacts of ASGM on the environment, the plausible consequences of ecological damages should guide policies and actions to address the unique challenges posed by ASGM.
Highlights
The practice of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is increasing in many low- and middleincome countries (LMICs), mainly due to the rising price of gold and widespread poverty
As part of the integrated assessment (IA), here we present evidence from Ghanaian ASGM sites that document relatively high levels of metals in ecological media including soil, foodstuffs, sediment, and water
This review focuses on arsenic, cadmium, and lead, which were most widely studied in ecological media
Summary
The practice of artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is increasing in many low- and middleincome countries (LMICs), mainly due to the rising price of gold and widespread poverty. Gold from these informal mines may represent 20–30% of the world’s output [1]. While mercury has gained most attention, there exist many other direct and indirect factors that contribute to poor ecological conditions in ASGM communities (Figure 1). This necessitates that impacts on the natural system, as well as planning for interventions be viewed under a broad ecosystem lens.
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