The Impact of Mining on the Water Resources in Ghana: Newmont Case Study at Birim North District (New Abirem)

Abstract

Mining activities accelerate the rate and degree of changes in the natural environment. These activities modify landscapes and can have long-term pollution impacts on communities and water resources due to their physical degrading nature, as well as their use of chemicals and other harmful substances. This study carried out by Department of Energy and Environmental Engineering of the University of Energy and Natural Resources therefore sought to assess the role of Newmont Akyem towards affecting the various water bodies in Akyem District. Qualitative and quantitative comparative methods were used for gathering data and performing analysis. The findings indicated that the physico-chemical parameters tested for the water bodies were all within the EPA, Ghana standards for drinking water except for the Pra River which recorded high levels of TSS indicating that there was, possibly, illegal mining activities upstream affecting the quality of the water. The study recommends that government provides both training and equipment to support small scale miners to avoid illegal mining. Also mining companies should contribute towards developing alternative livelihood for communities on whose lands they occupy. EPA should enforce environmental laws to protect the water bodies and the environment.