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Impacts of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining on Water Quality in Mozambique and Zimbabwe

Impacts of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining on Water Quality in Mozambique and Zimbabwe
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Author(s): Never Mujere (University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe)and Manuel Isidro (University of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe)
Copyright: 2016
Pages: 19
Source title: Impact of Water Pollution on Human Health and Environmental Sustainability
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): A. Elaine McKeown (Independent Researcher, USA)and George Bugyi (Pennsylvania State University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-9559-7.ch005

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Abstract

Artisanal and small scale gold mining (ASGM) is an informal economic activity. ASGM is the process of extracting gold ore from the ground in the absence of land rights, mining license, exploration or mining mineral exploration permit or any legitimate document that allows the operation. Its haphazard nature, location close to and dependence on water have negative effects on the physical, chemical and biological composition of water. The socio-economic benefits of small scale mining, which include employment and income generation, are seriously outweighed by devastating environmental costs and impacts. The objective of this chapter is to examine effects of ASGM on water quality in Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Findings show that ASGM causes land disturbance, loss of biodiversity, deforestation and depletion of water resources, increased levels of siltation, turbidity and heavy metal content and the disturbance of aquatic life and its habitats. ASGM also negatively effects the health of people and animals. Based on the research findings, it is important to support and formalize, as much as possible, the mining operations so that it becomes environmentally friendly and sustainable.

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