Authors :
Abel A. Joshua; Richard Olusola Adepitan; Adeola Adegbuyiro; Umar. U. I
Volume/Issue :
Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 12 - December
Google Scholar :
http://tinyurl.com/bdzn9byz
Scribd :
http://tinyurl.com/bdhrbcar
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10376000
Abstract :
This study was carried out to evaluate the
environmental impacts of mining of precious metals in
Anka and Gusau in Zamfara state. Specific areas of
interest are Brithway Minerals (BM) and the artisanal
mine site in Sunke (MW). Representative Samples of soil
and water were collected and the concentrations of heavy
metals (Pb, Zn, Ni, Cd, As, Mn, Hg) as well as their
physiochemical properties were analyzed using standard
analytical procedures. Results of the analysis show
values of heavy metals such as lead and mercury above
the threshold limit when compared with World Health
Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water and
ECDGE (European Commission Directorate General for
Environment). Lead values higher than 0.01mg/L were
recorded in all water samples analyzed and get
extremely high in abandoned ponds consequent upon
mining activities. Field investigation reveals the practice
of whole ore amalgamation, the engagement of
teenagers, excessive noise and dust from processing, and
complete neglect of personal protective equipment
(PPE). The need for monitoring, education, and
enlightenment on various available environmentally safe
and eco-friendly mining technologies that will enhance
safe operations was highlighted as possible solutions to
curtail health and environmental malaise.
Keywords :
Heavy metals, threshold limit values, mining and processing, environmental implication.
This study was carried out to evaluate the
environmental impacts of mining of precious metals in
Anka and Gusau in Zamfara state. Specific areas of
interest are Brithway Minerals (BM) and the artisanal
mine site in Sunke (MW). Representative Samples of soil
and water were collected and the concentrations of heavy
metals (Pb, Zn, Ni, Cd, As, Mn, Hg) as well as their
physiochemical properties were analyzed using standard
analytical procedures. Results of the analysis show
values of heavy metals such as lead and mercury above
the threshold limit when compared with World Health
Organization (WHO) standards for drinking water and
ECDGE (European Commission Directorate General for
Environment). Lead values higher than 0.01mg/L were
recorded in all water samples analyzed and get
extremely high in abandoned ponds consequent upon
mining activities. Field investigation reveals the practice
of whole ore amalgamation, the engagement of
teenagers, excessive noise and dust from processing, and
complete neglect of personal protective equipment
(PPE). The need for monitoring, education, and
enlightenment on various available environmentally safe
and eco-friendly mining technologies that will enhance
safe operations was highlighted as possible solutions to
curtail health and environmental malaise.
Keywords :
Heavy metals, threshold limit values, mining and processing, environmental implication.
