Abstract:

The activities of small scale miners in Ghana have had negative effects on the environment and this has hampered security within the environment. The study seeks to assess the role of education on small-scale mining for sustainable development in the Banda/Nkwanta community in the Bole District, the Northern part of Ghana. Small scale mining operations have been a major cause of most of the negative environmental impacts in most parts of Ghana. This activity has now found its way to the Northern part of Ghana which is a serious canker for sustainable development. The environmental effects of these activities are higher because most of the activities are not coordinated and monitored by authorities especially in the Northern part of Ghana. The methods of mining applied by operators determine the severity of threat to environmental security. The chemical method of processing gold is a severe health hazard, especially the amalgamation with mercury. Small scale mining activities have a lot of negative impacts on agricultural activities, the major occupation and source of livelihood for the people. It is recommended that Government and its agencies should encourage the illegal small-scale operators to formalize their operations in order to be accessible for supervision. The issuance of licenses and permit for surface mining should be reduced and most of these companies should be encouraged to explore the underground mining method with appropriate techniques and skills that meet international best practices. The Bole District Assembly should enforce environmentally friendly bye-laws, education and comprehensive environmental protection measures.

Keywords: Education, small-scale Mining, Sustainable development.

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