Burning seized galamsey equipment: A hidden environmental crisis

There is no denying that galamsey has become a national menace. Our precious forests are under siege. Rivers that once served as lifelines for millions have turned muddy and toxic, no longer safe for human consumption. The situation is dire—farmers are losing fertile land, aquatic life is dying, and communities are being deprived of safe water sources. The use of mercury and other deadly chemicals in illegal gold processing is not only poisoning the environment but also putting the very lives of the miners at risk. Beyond the environmental and health tolls, the social cost is rising—school dropout rates have spiked in galamsey-prone areas, and prostitution has become rampant, further deepening the cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Government’s intensified efforts to end this illegal activity, especially through the deployment of the military and joint security task forces into forest reserves, demonstrate a decisive stance against it. However, the practice of burning seized excavators, crushers, water pumps, and other equipment has unintended consequences which must be urgently reviewed.

Preserve the Environment, Don’t Burn Seized Galamsey Equipment

While intended as a deterrent, this approach has unintended and damaging consequences. The burning of these machines releases a cocktail of pollutants into the atmosphere, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and heavy metals. These emissions contribute to air pollution, which can exacerbate respiratory illnesses among nearby populations.

The combustion of fuel residues, oils, lubricants, and metal components produces hazardous chemicals, including dioxins, furans, and particulate matter. These emissions contribute significantly to air pollution and pose serious health risks to nearby communities.

Moreover, the act releases large volumes of carbon dioxide and black carbon into the atmosphere—both potent greenhouse gases that exacerbate global warming and accelerate climate change. In an era where global efforts are focused on reducing carbon footprints, such practices undermine our nation's environmental commitments.

Another concern is the potential for residual debris and contaminants from burned equipment to be washed into nearby water bodies during rainfall. This runoff can introduce additional pollutants into rivers and streams, counteracting efforts to rehabilitate these vital ecosystems.

Alternative Solutions
Beyond environmental concerns, the destruction of valuable machinery represents a significant economic loss. These assets, if properly managed, could be repurposed to benefit the nation. For instance, local governments and municipal assemblies could utilize the equipment for infrastructure projects, such as road construction and maintenance, thereby reducing costs and promoting development.

Alternatively, the government could establish a centralized system to inventory, refurbish, and redistribute seized equipment to support legal, regulated mining operations. This approach would not only deter illegal activities but also bolster the formal mining sector, creating jobs and generating revenue.

Recommendations
In light of the above, I respectfully propose the following actions:

1. Immediate Suspension of Equipment Burning.
2. Establishment of a Management Framework: The development of a transparent framework for the management, refurbishment, and redistribution of seized assets, involving relevant stakeholders, including environmental agencies, local authorities, and civil society organizations.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch educational initiatives to inform the public about the environmental and economic benefits of alternative approaches to handling seized equipment.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation: Implement robust monitoring systems to track the outcomes of these alternative measures, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.

The fight against galamsey is multifaceted, requiring not only enforcement but also sustainable and innovative solutions. By re-evaluating the current approach to handling seized equipment, government has the opportunity to reinforce its commitment to environmental stewardship, economic prudence, and social responsibility.

BY Rahim Newton
Real Estate Professional and Sustainability Specialist