Experts Call for Innovative Repurposing of Abandoned Mining Sites at DAAD-Alumni Conference in Kumasi
At the recent DAAD-Alumni Conference held at the CSIR-Soil Research Institute in Kumasi, scientists and researchers gathered to advocate for the innovative repurposing of abandoned mining concessions across Ghana. This call to action comes in response to the alarming environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities, which continue to plague these once-productive lands. As illegal miners continue to exploit abandoned sites left by large-scale companies, experts warn that restoring these degraded lands could take a staggering 300 years. While the government and mining corporations strive to mitigate the environmental impact, researchers are calling for a more inclusive approach that explores alternative uses for these lands beyond mere reclamation.
Dr. Jones Mantey, a Strategic Mine Consultant, spoke at the conference about the challenges faced with reclamation efforts. “Some community members opposed a plan by a mining company to convert an abandoned site into aquaculture. They argued that they are miners, not fishermen, and wouldn’t want a fishing hub. This created challenges. If security isn’t tight at abandoned sites, it creates problems,” he noted.
(Dr. Jones Mantey, a Strategic Mine Consultant)
Dr. Mantey proposes transforming these abandoned sites into energy hubs or recreational areas. He pointed out that backfilling dug pits can be difficult, suggesting that converting them into water resources or hydro dams could provide economically, socially, and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Dr. Albert Mensah, a senior research scientist at the Soil Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR-SRI) and program coordinator for the DAAD Alumni event, emphasized the challenges of phytoremediation. “Phytoremediation is difficult. Since these mining companies are businesses, they are not ready to wait for these plants to absorb the toxic chemicals, as it takes a long time,” he stated.
(Dr. Albert Mensah, a senior research scientist, CSIR-SRI)
Dr. Collins Tay, Director at the Soil Research Institute, underscored the necessity for government commitment in restoring natural resources adversely impacted by illegal mining.
“Once the miners are licensed, they must set aside funds for restoration right from the start of production,” he advised.
The discussions at the conference reflect a growing recognition of the need to balance economic interests with environmental sustainability, as experts seek to find effective solutions to the challenges posed by mining in Ghana.
Professor Jörg Rinklebe, the keynote speaker, delivered a presentation cataloguing the various works he has undertaken over the years. Professor Rinklebe is among the top 2% of scientists worldwide.
In his presentation, Prof. Rinklebe recounted the numerous projects he is leading as the principal investigator across Europe, Asia, America, and Africa.
He described the effectiveness of phytoremediation technologies in removing contaminants from polluted soils and water. He concluded that restoring the pristine or original state through phytoremediation could take between 10,000 and 100,000 years.
The DAAD-Alumni Conference brought together local and international researchers and stakeholders to discuss the impacts of both large-scale and artisanal gold mining on the environment and to propose practical solutions for sustainable practices.
