The Mercury Problem in Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) is the largest global source of mercury pollution.
• Elemental mercury is used in ASGM to form an amalgam with gold, which is then heated, releasing mercury vapor and contaminated tailings.
• Over 1000 tonnes of mercury are released annually from ASGM, impacting millions of people and ecosystems worldwide.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pervasive issue of mercury pollution from ASGM.
• To highlight the critical role of the chemistry community in addressing this global environmental and health crisis.
• To identify potential chemical solutions for mitigating mercury pollution in ASGM.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on mercury use and pollution in ASGM.
• Identification of key areas where chemical innovation can provide solutions.
• Discussion of the challenges and requirements for implementing new technologies in ASGM contexts.

Main Results:

• ASGM affects 10-19 million people across over 70 countries.
• Mercury exposure from ASGM causes severe neurological damage in miners and developmental issues in children.
• Contamination of water and soil leads to mercury accumulation in food staples, particularly fish.

Conclusions:

• The chemistry community has a vital role in developing low-cost, adaptable solutions for ASGM.
• Potential solutions include portable mercury sensors, scalable remediation technologies, methods to reduce mercury uptake in food, and mercury-free mining techniques.
• Addressing mercury pollution in ASGM is an urgent chemical challenge with significant public health implications.