Environmental Impacts of Illegal Mining on Transboundary Water Pollution in Ghana and Cote Divoire: Legaland Policy Perspectives and Avoidance of Future International Litigatio

Donatus D and Simon KK

Published on: 2023-10-05

Abstract

In nations like Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire, where water contamination and transboundary pollution present considerable issues, illegal mining is a serious environmental concern. In order to determine the causes and effects of illegal mining activities, this qualitative study examined the environmental effects of illegal mining on water pollution and transboundary pollution in the two nations through a thorough evaluation of 45 related papers. According to the report, unlawful mining caused cross-border pollution and contaminated water supplies. Unrestricted extraction techniques unleashed dangerous chemicals and heavy metals into water bodies, severely polluting the water and harming aquatic ecosystems. These issues are made worse by transnational pollution, which affects adjacent nations.

The investigation brought to light underlying causes, such as poor governance, inefficient law enforcement, and social pressures that contribute to unlawful mining. It highlighted the social and economic ramifications, such as the detrimental health consequences on neighbourhood communities and the loss of biodiversity. The study found that up to now, the threat has not been sufficiently addressed by the enforcement of the existing legal and regulatory frameworks. According to the study's findings, the two countries' mining and environmental regulations must be strictly enforced in order to mitigate unlawful mining's effects on the environment. In this regard, it is critically necessary to promote sustainable mining practices, develop regulatory frameworks, and enhance law enforcement capabilities. Effectively combating transboundary contamination also requires global cooperation and knowledge exchange.