Why L.I. 2462 must be revoked in its entirety

A Dangerous Precedent

L.I. 2462 allows mining companies access to forest reserves. It designates prohibited zones, including biodiversity areas and cultural sites. However, exceptions mean these protections are not guaranteed. This loophole could lead to destructive mining in untouched areas.

Ghana struggles with enforcing environmental regulations. Illegal mining (galamsey) has already harmed landscapes and poisoned water bodies. Introducing legal mining in forest reserves will worsen this issue.

The Environmental Toll

Forest reserves are crucial for absorbing greenhouse gases. Mining in these areas will cause massive deforestation. This reduces their ability to regulate climate and worsens extreme weather events.

Ghana’s forests host unique plants and animals that are already threatened. Mining leads to habitat destruction, pushing species closer to extinction. Biodiversity loss affects both wildlife and humans who rely on these ecosystems.

Water pollution is another major concern from mining activities. Toxic chemicals like cyanide and mercury can contaminate drinking water sources. The impact of illegal mining on rivers like the Pra, Ankobra, and Offin is already severe.

Economic Myths and Realities

Supporters of L.I. 2462 claim it will create jobs and increase revenue. However, history shows that mining often harms long-term sustainability. Forest destruction undermines agriculture, forestry, and ecotourism—industries that provide stable jobs.

Moreover, profits from mining rarely benefit local communities directly. Multinational corporations often take the profits while communities suffer from degraded land and health issues.

A Governance Failure

The passage of L.I. 2462 highlights a governance failure in Ghana. Policymakers have prioritized mining interests over environmental protection. This decision contradicts Ghana’s commitments to sustainable development.

Ghana has signed agreements like the Paris Climate Accord emphasizing forest protection. Allowing mining in reserves damages the country’s global reputation.

The Way Forward

L.I. 2462 should be revoked immediately to protect Ghana’s forests for future generations. The government must focus on sustainable economic alternatives instead of expanding mining activities.

Stronger enforcement against illegal mining is essential as well. If the government cannot regulate degraded areas, how can it oversee forest reserves? Stricter penalties for illegal activities will be more beneficial than exploiting protected lands.

Civil society groups must continue advocating against L.I. 2462. Public pressure has halted harmful policies before; it can do so again for Ghana's forests.

Conclusion

L.I. 2462 threatens Ghana’s environmental, social, and economic future significantly. Allowing mining in forest reserves is a recipe for disaster despite supposed safeguards.

Mining will lead to deforestation, biodiversity loss, water pollution, and weakened economies overall. The government must act now to revoke this legislation entirely for a sustainable future.