Illegal mining is a severe environmental crime, one of the most damaging, rapidly expanding, and profitable criminal activities globally. It mostly refers to mining activities that violate regulatory laws, in restricted areas, and with prohibited equipment and chemicals (Kurylo, 2024). These activities have occasioned environmental damage, as espoused by the United Nations Environment Programme, as the deterioration of the environment through the depletion of resources such as air, water and soil; the destruction of ecosystems and the extinction of wildlife. Equally, the Environment and Resource Authority assert that “environmental damage” refers to harm to protected species and natural ecosystems, as well as damage to water and soil. Environmental damage, also known as environmental degradation, is the gradual deterioration of our planet’s natural condition due to human activities such as pollution, deforestation, climate change, and habitat destruction.
Illegal mining popularly known in Ghana as ‘Galamsey’ has contributed to many environmental, social, agricultural and economic problems over the years that cannot be overestimated. Illegal mining (galamsey) practices, including the use of mercury and improper land management, lead to deforestation, land degradation, and water pollution (Amankwah, 2013; Ansah & Smardon, 2015; Prosper & Guan, 2015; Amankwah & Anim-Sackey, 2021) cited in (Asuamah Yeboah, 2023). This is in tandem with the report issued by INTERPOL (2021) on illegal gold mining in Central Africa which indicates that illegal gold mining has severe environmental impacts, including pollution, destruction of natural flora and fauna, and negative effects on rural habitats and livelihoods. Also, semi-mechanized exploitation according to the report can encourage poaching and logging, destroying arable land and rivers. As argued by Asuamah Yeboah, (2023) illegal mining operations often involve clearing large areas of forests and vegetation for mineral deposits, causing deforestation, habitat loss, reduced carbon sequestration, and ecological imbalance. This also leads to soil erosion and land degradation, making affected areas less suitable for agriculture and other land-based economic activities. Similarly, Obeng, et al (2019) indicate that illegal mining (Galamsey) activities cause havoc by destroying forest cover and soils, introducing toxic waste into soil and water bodies, and often leading to health issues.
Illegal mining, including small-scale gold mining, is a major global source of mercury pollution, accounting for around a third of total pollution, and is the second-largest cause of deforestation (Kurylo, 2024). Illegal miners frequently employ harmful practices, like the improper use of mercury in gold extraction, which is toxic and pollutes water bodies, soil, and food chains. This poses significant risks to human health and the environment, affecting downstream communities and ecosystems that rely on these water bodies for livelihoods. Soil pollution and erosion caused by the activities of illegal miners (Galamseyers) further decrease the quality of arable land, reducing crop yields and productivity (Asuamah Yeboah, 2023).
There have been so many attempts to tackle the menace of illegal mining (galamsey) by introducing popular and unpopular policies in Ghana’s context, yet the problem persists. For instance, the use of the military task force to clamp down on the menace, the policy of seizing and burning excavators and other equipment used in illegal mining activities, and the prosecution of alleged perpetrators of such activity. All these measures could only yield a short-lived result due to issues of corruption that flouted the activities of the task force. The menace is not limited to Ghana, as argued by Kurylo (2024) that illegal mining activities in Latin America have become the “new cocaine” for criminal organizations, leading to deforestation, ecosystem poisoning, endangered species, and devastating indigenous lands. This environmental crime, driven by a new gold rush, has left a bleak footprint. This has spread across the Amazon basin, which covers nine nations, without regard for national borders. Illegal gold mining is a big issue for all Amazon countries. African countries like South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Namibia, DRC, Zimbabwe etc. are all battling with illegal mining. In South Africa, the illegal miners are known as the Zama Zamas whereas in Ghana the activity is called Galamsey.
Considering the grave impact of illegal mining, it transcends from environmental damage to damage to agricultural land (arable land) and its attendant social issues culminating in economic problems. As indicated by Levy (2022), illegal mining is a significant issue that intersects environmentalism and economic development, symbolising the challenges developing nations face in addressing climate change and complex social issues. It however becomes highly imperative to devise a solution, that is not to say that no measure has been professed and implemented, the reality is that all efforts aimed at curbing illegal mining activities and mitigating its adverse effects have proved unsuccessful, especially in Ghana. It is therefore important to explore 21st-century technology in addressing the menace of illegal mining. Levy (2022) argued that the actuarial skillset may play a significant role in addressing this challenge. This is corroborated by a proposal by the US Embassy Ghana (2023) that identifies the use of the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence, remote sensing, geographic information systems, satellite data, and tools made available through projects like SERVIR-West Africa, as possible solutions to the menace of illegal mining in Ghana.
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address environmental damage caused by illegal mining is relevant because the integration of AI offers hope in addressing environmental challenges like climate change, deforestation, and pollution. With its computational power and data processing capabilities, AI is a critical ally in preserving and protecting the planet (Gupta, 2024). The United Nations Environment Programme (2022) highlights the potential of AI in addressing environmental issues, including designing energy-efficient buildings, monitoring deforestation, and optimizing renewable energy deployment. Deforestation as indicated happens to be one of the key results of illegal mining, therefore employing artificial intelligence to monitor the cutting down of trees in a forest will help give a prompt alert on illegal mining activities helping in forest reserves for urgent action to preserve the forest. Artificial intelligence has become relevant in the fight against illegal mining because, unlike human beings, artificial intelligence cannot be induced though it has limitations. The measures employed in the past by most countries, had so much direct human involvement for instance, in Ghana, thereby jeopardising the effort through alleged acts of corruption.
Current Efforts to Combat Illegal Mining
The world’s environmental damage, especially those caused by illegal mining, has necessitated measures to curb the menace to protect the environment, communities, and economies. The following are the current strategies and initiatives being implemented globally to combat illegal mining.
Legislation and enforcement happen to be an effort globally employed by many countries to tackle the menace of illegal mining. Numerous countries are enacting legislation to regulate mining activities and combat illegal ones in response to environmental and social concerns. The measures involve implementing stricter penalties for illegal mining practices and improving enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulations. For instance;
Ghana has implemented laws to regulate the mining sector and combat illegal activities. Some of the key legislations include the 1992 Constitution, the Minerals and Mining Act, 2006 (Act 703), amended by the Minerals and Mining (Amendment) Act, 2015, 2019 (Act 995), and the Minerals Commission Act, 1993(Act 450). Other substantive enactments include the Minerals Development Fund Act, 2016 (Act 912), Minerals Income Investment Fund Act, 2018 (Act 978), amended by Minerals Income Investment Fund Act, 2020 (Act 1024) and the Kimberley Process Certificate Act, 2003 (Act 652) governs exploration, development, and exploitation of mineral resources, establishing a legal framework for environmental protection and community engagement. The government of Ghana has imposed stricter penalties for illegal mining activities, including fines, imprisonment, confiscation of equipment and assets, and increased penalties for environmental violations and unauthorised mining activities, to deter offenders and enforce mining laws. Ghana has enhanced its enforcement measures against illegal mining by establishing specialised task forces like the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining (IMCIM) and Operation Vanguard. These forces coordinate actions, conduct raids, and arrest violators. This enforcement aims to disrupt illegal activities, restore law and order, and protect the environment.
In South Africa, illegal mining is a criminal offence governed by several laws. The main legislation is the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (MPRDA) of 2002, which regulates mining rights, environmental protection, and prevention, of illegal activities. The Precious Metals Act of 2005 regulates the mining and trading of precious metals, while the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) of 1998 aims to prevent and mitigate the environmental impacts of illegal mining activities. The Criminal Procedure Act of 1977 provides for the investigation and prosecution of criminal offences, including illegal mining.
Technology and monitoring tools are being increasingly utilized to combat illegal mining activities globally. Satellite imagery, drones, and GPS tracking systems are being utilized to effectively monitor mining activities, enabling authorities to identify illegal sites, track activities, and take appropriate enforcement actions. Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Ghana, and Indonesia have implemented various measures, with technology to combat illegal mining activities. Brazil has used satellite monitoring technology to track illegal activities in the Amazon rainforest. Peru has partnered with the Carnegie Airborne Observatory to use advanced imaging technology to detect and monitor illegal mining operations. Colombia has a digital platform called “Minería en Línea” to monitor mining activities. Ghana has established the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Illegal Mining to use drone technology and satellite imagery to combat illegal mining. Indonesia has implemented a system called “E-SDA” to track and monitor mining activities.
There is international cooperation among countries through information sharing to combat illegal mining due to the cross-border nature of the menace. Countries are actively collaborating through partnerships and agreements to combat illegal mining activities that have a transnational impact. For instance, the United States and Colombia are partnering to combat illegal mining activities in Colombia, which often involve criminal organisations and have a transnational impact on the environment and local communities. The European Union has agreements with African countries like Ghana and Sierra Leone to support sustainable mining practices. The Intergovernmental Forum on Mining, Minerals, Metals and Sustainable Development (IGF) aims to address issues related to illegal mining and promote responsible practices globally. The Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) promotes transparency and accountability in the extractive sector, including combating illegal mining activities. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme also helps prevent the trade of conflict diamonds.
There has also been public awareness and education by intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations on the impact of illegal mining activities in areas and countries where the menace is prevalent. Public awareness of the detrimental effects of illegal mining on the environment, communities, and economies, along with education on responsible mining practices and legal compliance, is aimed at reducing such activities. Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), Mining Shared Value, Alliance for Responsible Mining, Solidaridad Network, and Fairtrade Foundation are organisations working to raise awareness about the negative impacts of illegal mining on communities, the environment, and economies.
There are efforts towards environmental rehabilitation in areas affected by illegal mining through reforestation, land reclamation, and water treatment, which are essential measures to address, illegal mining, by restoring ecosystems, mitigating environmental damage, and promoting sustainable land use practices. Countries like Ghana, Brazil, Indonesia, Peru, Colombia etc. have all in one way embarked on environmental rehabilitation to reclaim lands affected by illegal mining.
Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Fighting Illegal Mining
The advent of technology and most especially the revolution of AI has exposed the world to the multiplicity of tasks that AI can be employed to execute. AI can significantly combat illegal mining by utilising advanced technologies to monitor and detect illegal activities in mining areas. That is;
Artificial Intelligence algorithms can use satellite imagery to detect land use changes and illegal mining activities, enabling authorities to monitor mining sites from space, identify illegal mining operations, and take necessary action. Artificial Intelligence can detect unauthorised mining activities by analysing satellite images, identifying land use changes, and tracking mining expansion in prohibited areas. Authorities can compare current images with historical data and take the necessary action. AI algorithms can use satellite images to monitor the environmental impact of mining activities and detect deforestation, land degradation, and illegal activities. This will enable authorities to prioritise enforcement and mitigate environmental damage.
AI has a predictive analytic feature that can be employed to predict illegal mining in specific areas by analysing historical data and trends. It can identify high-risk areas for illegal mining activities through historical data analysis and predictive modelling. This allows authorities to prioritise monitoring and enforcement efforts to prevent illegal activities in these specific areas. It can be employed to analyse mining permits and licenses to detect irregularities, discrepancies, and illegal activities. It can also monitor permit status changes and regulatory compliance, identifying suspicious activities and alerting authorities.
Artificial intelligence can be employed to combat illegal mining activities by monitoring mining equipment and vehicles. AI-powered sensors can be installed on mining equipment and vehicles to monitor their movements and activities in real time. This can assist authorities in identifying unauthorised mining activities for immediate preventive measures to be implemented.
Artificial Intelligence-equipped drones offer high-resolution images and real-time data for remote or inaccessible areas, enabling the identification of illegal mining sites, tracking of mining activities, and monitoring environmental damage. AI-powered drones equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms can be used for monitoring and surveillance of mining activities. These drones capture high-resolution images and video footage of mining sites, allowing real-time analysis to detect illegal or unauthorised activities. The algorithms of AI can also be used for remote sensing and image analysis, detecting changes in land cover, unauthorised excavation sites, and vegetation changes. Machine learning algorithms can provide early warnings to authorities.
AI can aid in evaluating the environmental impact of illegal mining activities, providing crucial data on damage extent and guiding restoration efforts. AI-equipped drones can be utilised for data collection and analysis, change detection, risk assessment, monitoring compliance etc. which can considerably advance the efficiency and precision of evaluating the environmental consequences of various mining activities.
The advancements of AI have revolutionized environmental monitoring networks, enabling real-time data collection and interpretation on air, water, and biodiversity. These networks, powered by sensors, drones, and IoT devices, can detect pollution levels and assess ecosystem health in remote areas. Environmental monitoring networks use AI algorithms for data processing, anomaly detection, and predictive analytics to provide timely insights into environmental conditions, identify pollution sources, and support conservation and environmental management decisions, enhancing data collection efficiency and accuracy.
Case Studies of AI in Action
There are lots of debates and doubts among many people especially Ghanaians as to how possible it is to employ AI in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey). Many people argue that it is practically impossible to employ AI in the fight against illegal mining, while others ask how realistic it is. As the saying goes, there is nothing new under the sun hence the need to explore areas it has been utilised. Several notable case studies demonstrate the deployment of AI in combating illegal mining activities. There are lots of cases of the use of AI algorithms to identify illegal mining sites. For example;
The World Resources Institute developed a platform called Global Forest Watch, which uses artificial intelligence (an open-source web application) to monitor global forests, analyse satellite imagery, and spot deforestation and illegal mining activities in real-time (World Resources Institute, 2023). The platform records and analyses data on forest change, forest cover, forest use, conservation and people. The forest change data have been used to measure global deforestation rates and to detect and monitor illegal clearing activity in Indonesia (World Resources Institute, 2023).
The Pulitzer Center and Earthrise Media have launched Amazon Mining Watch, a platform using satellite imagery to detect gold mines and open-pit mining activities in the world’s largest rainforest. In its beta version, the platform conducts 326 million high-resolution image analyses every 4 months, covering the entire Amazon region of nine countries or 6.7 million square kilometres, identifying an area with mining activity characteristics (Faleiros, 2022). Also, SkyTruth, a non-profit organisation, uses Artificial Intelligence-powered satellite monitoring and machine learning algorithms to detect and expose illegal mining activities in the Amazon rainforest. It analyses satellite images and radar data to monitor environmental impacts and support enforcement actions.
Picterra platform is an AI-enabled forest monitoring tool used to monitor deforestation by mapping causes of deforestation. Picterra revolutionizes geospatial machine learning by providing a platform meticulously crafted for the analysis of satellite and aerial imagery. The platform goes beyond traditional methods, streamlining the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to make the process remarkably efficient. The platform’s custom object detection capabilities provide a detailed approach to forest management and monitoring, enabling precise tree counting, ecosystem alterations, health assessment, and risk identification.
EarthRanger is a conservation technology platform created by Vulcan Inc. It uses AI and data analytics to monitor and prevent illegal mining activities in wildlife reserves and protected areas. The platform gathers real-time data from sensors, cameras, and other monitoring devices to identify and address illegal activities such as mining, poaching, and deforestation.
These developments refute the debate that it is impossible to employ artificial intelligence in combating illegal mining however it does not guarantee its success hence the need to explore how successful the effort has been in areas it has been employed. The ensuing text provides success stories of AI-enabled interventions that have led to the closure of illegal mining operations.
In Peru, the Global Forest Watch platform, powered by AI algorithms and satellite monitoring, detected illegal mining activities in the Madre de Dios region, a critical biodiversity hotspot in the Amazon rainforest. The Peruvian authorities used the information provided by Global Forest Watch to target and shut down illegal mining operations, confiscate mining equipment, and restore degraded areas.
In Brazil, the Global Forest Watch platform identified illegal mining sites in protected areas of the Amazon rainforest, leading to coordinated enforcement actions by government agencies and environmental authorities. By leveraging AI technologies for monitoring and surveillance, Brazilian authorities could dismantle illegal mining operations, prosecute offenders, and prevent further environmental damage.
In Colombia, the Global Forest Watch platform helped authorities detect and shut down illegal mining activities in the Chocó region, a critical biodiversity hotspot and indigenous territory. Using AI algorithms to analyse satellite imagery and monitor changes in land cover, Colombian authorities could target illegal mining sites, conduct enforcement operations, and protect the environment and local communities.
In the DRC, the Global Forest Watch platform supported efforts to combat illegal mining activities in protected areas and wildlife reserves, such as Virunga National Park. Using Artificial Intelligence-powered satellite monitoring and machine learning algorithms, conservation organisations and park rangers could identify and dismantle illegal mining sites, disrupt criminal networks, and safeguard endangered species and habitats.
Challenges and Future Directions
Though Artificial Intelligence has been identified as a tool that can complement efforts towards the fight against illegal mining (galamsey), it does not come without limitations. Gupta, (2024) asserts that AI’s potential to address environmental issues is promising, though its implementation faces complexities like algorithmic bias, data privacy, and accessibility, necessitating responsible and equitable use in ecological contexts. According to Gupta (2024), the use of AI to fight illegal mining (galamsey) and other activities that damage the environment presents among others the following challenges;
AI algorithms face potential bias due to the data they are trained on and the creators’ intentions. In environmental applications, data from specific regions may not accurately represent global conditions, leading to ineffective solutions. Ethical considerations are crucial in AI development, as decisions can impact ecosystems and communities. AI systems can be biased and discriminatory, which might result in unfair targeting or profiling of particular groups or persons engaging in unlawful mining operations. Ethical AI requires transparency, inclusivity in data representation, and accountability for AI decisions’ outcomes.
AI systems frequently demand significant environmental data, which raises worries regarding data privacy and security. Misuse of sensitive data might have unforeseen implications, such as exploitation of natural resources or targeting vulnerable people. The use of AI in monitoring illicit mining activities may have human rights issues, particularly if the technology is used to follow and target individuals without sufficient protection.
The potential of expanding the digital gap is a major consideration in implementing AI for environmental solutions. While AI may provide advanced tools for sustainability, its advantages must be available to everyone, regardless of geographic location or economic standing.
The challenges identified require solutions that can help strengthen the application of artificial intelligence in fighting illegal mining activities to maximise its use in the future. That is;
To mitigate bias in AI training, it’s crucial to incorporate diverse data from diverse ecological zones and socio-economic backgrounds. Ethical frameworks and guidelines are essential, prioritising environmental justice and stakeholder well-being in AI deployment.
Strong data encryption and access control mechanisms are crucial for protecting environmental data from unauthorised access and misuse. In contrast, clear data governance policies define data collection, usage, and sharing, ensuring transparency and consent.
To ensure equitable access to AI, strategies include developing low-cost solutions and investing in digital infrastructure in underserved regions. Co-developing AI solutions with diverse communities, especially those affected by environmental issues, ensure relevant, accessible, and beneficial AI tools for a broad range of users.
The employment of AI in the fight against illegal mining indicates that it can be utilised in general environmental conservation hence the institutions responsible should give it attention.
According to Kyeremateng (2020), AI has the potential to engineer more sustainable transport on land. Kyeremateng (2022) argues that artificial intelligence systems incorporate sensors and cameras that monitor traffic flow and adjust traffic lights when needed. The system reduces travel times and car idle, less idle means fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
AI can be employed in ocean protection by providing data from satellites and ocean exploration to enable decision-makers to monitor human activities in the ocean. It can also be employed to manage the intermittency of renewable energy and handle power fluctuation which can help improve energy efficiency (Kyeremateng, 2020).
Conclusion
The use of AI in combating illegal mining activities has been established as an important tool as experimented elsewhere. The approach has a success element to substantiate its viability. Peru, Brazil, Colombia and the Democratic Republic of Congo utilised AI to shut down illegal mining operations, confiscate mining equipment, and restore degraded areas. The success story of the application of AI is a call to action for countries battling with the menace of illegal mining activities to increase investment and collaboration in deploying AI solutions to tackle the canker. The future holds more than just deploying artificial intelligence in fighting illegal mining activities but also employing it in the generality of fighting environmental damage to ensure the conservation of the environment.
AUTHOR: Abdul-Salam Shaibu (Investigator, IT & Cybersecurity Professional)
References
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