EPA boss recommends responsible mining practices to safeguard human health, environment

Dr. Jackson Adiyiah Nyantakyi is the Ashanti Regional Director of the EPA. He emphasized the need for responsible mining practices. These practices are essential for protecting human health and the environment.

He highlighted dangers related to mercury use in gold extraction. Dr. Nyantakyi spoke at the Responsible Mining and Environmental Security Conference. This event was a joint effort by Pro-Mining Initiative Ghana and Goshen Global, supported by Commodity Monitor and the U.S. Embassy in Obuasi.

The conference featured several speakers, including Dr. Ishmael Quaicoe from UMaT. Representatives from paramount chiefs, the Ashanti Regional Minister's office, and the Ghana Police Service also attended.

The conference aimed to find sustainable solutions for illegal mining issues. It focused on mitigating environmental and social impacts while promoting responsible mining practices.

Dr. Nyantakyi noted that ongoing EPA compliance monitoring revealed alarming mercury use by small-scale miners in Ashanti Region. He stressed that mercury poses severe risks to public health and the environment.

The workshop aimed to educate miners about mercury's devastating effects. It also promoted safer alternatives for gold extraction methods.

Dr. Nyantakyi referenced the Minamata disaster as a tragic example of mercury exposure consequences. This case study illustrates long-term effects on individuals, communities, and ecosystems.