planetGOLD Uganda project kicks off
The planetGOLD Uganda project that aims to reduce use of mercury in mining has kicked off. UN Environment Programme (UNEP), launched the project and said the main target are artisanal and small-scale gold mining.
The planetGOLD Uganda will be a five year project being funded by Global Environment Facility and executed by the international non-profit organization, IMPACT in partnership with Uganda’s National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) and the country’s Directorate of Geological Survey and Mines (DGSM).
Risks in mercury exposure
The project plans to support 4,500 men and women at 11 mine sites in the country, reducing mercury use by 15 tonnes over five years. It will reduce the use of mercury by supporting formalization of the artisanal gold mining sector and increasing access to finance.
It has been observed by the World Health Organization (WHO) that ), exposure to mercury even small amounts may have toxic effects on the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes, as well as pose a threat to the development of the child in utero and early in life. Artisanal and small-scale gold mining according to data are ranked as world’s largest source of anthropogenic emissions of mercury pollution.
Reducing mercury use will improve the health and lives of local mining communities and further enhance adoption of mercury-free technologies that will allow access to more responsible and traceable gold supply chains.
“Through the planetGOLD Uganda project, miners will be introduced to solutions to the environmental and social challenges in the sector, helping to transition toward more responsible gold mining practices,” said Ludovic Bernaudat, Head of UNEP’s GEF Chemicals and Waste Portfolio.
