ASM and climate change

Abstract

Artisanal and small-scale mining is a widespread phenomenon in Africa. ASM miners can be found operating across a wide range of mineral types from tin to gold and other precious minerals and stones. ASM is typically a livelihood activity especially in rural areas where there are few alternatives. ASM typically involves rudimentary equipment that emits little in the way of greenhouse gases. However, the informal nature of ASM means that those engaging in these activities do not adhere to formal regulations and environmental practices. The role of ASM in African development has also received greater attention with its inclusion in The Africa Mining Vision Action Plan (2011). The relationship between climate change and ASM will become more pronounced in the coming decades due to its bi-causal nature. In brief, ASM will contribute to climate change due to the negligent environmental practices prevalent in the sector, whilst climate change will increase the attractiveness of ASM to communities who will experience increased difficulty in maintaining current farming practices. We are increasingly concerned with this topic in 2017, the majority of climate change literature which focused on Africa, explored its impact on agriculture.