Toxic mercury versus appropriate technology: Artisanal gold miners’ retort aversion |
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Authors: | Jesper Bosse Jønsson Elias Charles Per Kalvig |
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Institution: | 1. University of Glasgow, School of Geographical and Earth Sciences, University Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, United Kingdom;2. School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, P. O. Box 1464, Mwanza, Tanzania;3. Geological Survey of Denmark and Greenland, Øster Voldgade 10, 1350 Copenhagen K, Denmark |
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Abstract: | Mercury-usage in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has accelerated in developing countries during the last thirty years resulting in negative environmental and health impacts. As awareness of mercury contamination from ASGM has grown, a number of strategic initiatives have been introduced to reduce the impact of the toxic substance. The adoption of the retort, a device capable of recycling up to 95 per cent of mercury in gold extraction, constitutes a broadly recognized approach. Based on case-study research in Tanzania, this paper examines an ASGM area, which has been targeted by several mercury-reducing efforts. Based on survey data, key informants interviews, and visitor observations, the paper examines the impact of these efforts on mining techniques and residents’ attitudes towards the use of mercury. Despite the seemingly obvious advantages from adopting retorts or other mercury-reducing techniques – economic, environmental, and health-wise – miners continue to use mercury haphazardly, while demonstrating an only limited awareness of the toxicity of the substance. The paper discusses the possible explanations behind this as well as possible ways forward in facilitating the reduction of mercury in ASGM operations. |
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Keywords: | Artisanal and small-scale mining Mercury Retort Appropriate technology Gold Tanzania |
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